Ecomondo 2026: The Role of Circular Economy in Innovation and Global Cooperation

Ecomondo 2026: A Hub for Circular Economy Innovations

Ecomondo, the premier international event dedicated to the circular and regenerative economy, will take place from November 3 to 6, 2026, at the Rimini Expo Centre, organized by the Italian Exhibition Group (IEG). This year marks the 29th edition of the event, expected to attract approximately 1,800 exhibiting brands, showcasing innovations and sustainable solutions in a vast space of 169,000 square meters across thirty exhibition halls.

Professor Fabio Fava, the chairman of Ecomondo’s Scientific Technical Committee, alongside Alessandra Astolfi, the event director, anticipates a remarkable 10% increase in international exhibitors. The event will also welcome over 1,000 hosted buyers from various countries, facilitated by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, along with the Italian Trade Agency. These interactions promise to foster partnerships that propel sustainable practices in the circular economy across borders.

Ecomondo will present a rich and diverse conference program, developed in conjunction with its International Technical Scientific Committee. Moreover, over 70 conferences and networking events will delve into critical discussions surrounding European policies, innovative practices, and opportunities for international cooperation. The spotlight will particularly shine on the Mediterranean region and Africa, which signifies the event’s commitment to global sustainability.

The opening sessions will feature the States General of the Green Economy on November 3 and 4, co-organized with the Foundation for Sustainable Development. This important forum will also receive support from Italy’s Ministry of the Environment and Energy Security and engage the National Council for the Green Economy. A significant segment of the discussions will center on the European Circular Economy Act and its implications for waste management and packaging industries—a hot topic that is intricately tied to how companies navigate their responsibilities in the circular economy.

Additionally, Ecomondo will have a strong focus on the textile sector—highlighted as a crucial area for the transition to a sustainable economy. This will be underscored by programs organized by Ecomondo’s Textile Working Group, bringing crucial dialogue and updates to stakeholders in the fashion industry as they adapt to new sustainable practices.

Ecomondo will also address numerous other pressing topics, including the development of sustainable cities, improving the recycling of paper, enhancing soil restoration efforts, advancing the regenerative bioeconomy, optimizing bioenergy production, and promoting effective water management practices. Notably, in partnership with Comieco and Nomisma, a special assessment of the environmental and economic benefits from projects funded by Italy's National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP) in the paper recycling sector will be presented.

International cooperation will remain a central theme, highlighted by the 6th Africa Green Growth Forum. Organized in collaboration with the Task Force for the Mattei Plan, Confindustria Assafrica Mediterraneo, and RES4Africa, this forum aims to deepen discussions about sustainable finance, innovative funding models, risk management, and policies that govern green transitions across the African continent and beyond.

In light of the increasing relevance of sustainability initiatives, participants can expect insightful discussions on ESG strategies, investment solutions, regulatory frameworks, and research that support technological progress in sustainability.

For those interested in the continuously evolving program and speaker lineup, updates will be available on the official Ecomondo website, ensuring that attendees are well-informed and engaged throughout the event.

Ultimately, Ecomondo 2026 aims to serve as a catalyst for change in the global approach to circular economies, showcasing how innovation, collaboration, and sustainable practices can be effectively shared and implemented on an international scale. It invites all stakeholders from around the globe to participate actively in this transformative journey towards a greener tomorrow.