#United States #Washington, D.C. #Sustainable Innovation #circular economy #REMADE Institute

The 2026 REMADE® Circular Economy Tech Summit

The 2026 REMADE® Circular Economy Technology Summit is set to occur in Washington, D.C., on March 11-12, 2026. Organized by the REMADE Institute, a collaboration with over 150 members and the U.S. Department of Energy, this summit aims to showcase nearly 50 innovative projects focused on improving the reuse, remanufacturing, recovery, and recycling of essential materials.

Highlights of the Summit

The event will feature various keynote speakers and expert panels who will delve into pressing issues related to sustainable technology and the Circular Economy. Attendees can look forward to presentations from renowned industry leaders and academia, focusing on groundbreaking innovations backed by peer-reviewed research. The summit promises to be a gathering of top minds, combining insights from government, industry, and scientific agencies, making it a vital platform for discourse on sustainable practices.

Keynote speakers will include:

• - Paul Ekins, a leading figure from UCL, discussing resource and environmental policy, particularly in the context of energy transition minerals.
• - John Shegerian, the CEO of ERI, who will emphasize the importance of increasing electronics recycling.
• - Notable researchers like Heinz Schandl, who will address the circular economy’s benefits for industry and society alike, and Nancy Bocken, who will discuss advancing circular business models.

The Importance of a Circular Economy

As businesses and governments aim for economic recovery and resilience in supply chains, discussions on sustainability have never been more critical. Ekins emphasizes that the move towards a Circular Economy can significantly enhance economic growth and competitiveness, particularly concerning the increasingly important critical minerals sector. He notes, "The Circular Economy is central to modern technologies and can help mitigate supply chain vulnerabilities."

Shegerian, conversely, highlights the urgent need for responsible recycling methodologies to secure the necessary minerals for future technological advances. He states, "Our challenges at this crossroads demand immediate action to ensure we have a secure supply of these critical resources."

Conference Features

The summit’s agenda includes presentations of over 50 cutting-edge papers addressing various topics such as:

• - Critical minerals recovery and recycling.
• - Textile recycling innovations.
• - The role of university research in driving effective circular economy practices.

Registration and Participation

The event invites members and non-members alike, promoting a wide array of discussion and collaboration opportunities among participants. The summit is expected to draw significant attendance, ranging from industry leaders and academic researchers to policymakers and NGOs dedicated to a sustainable future. Media personnel are also encouraged to engage with the dialogue.

For registration, attendees can visit the REMADE Institute’s official website to secure their participation. The summit will also make previous conference papers accessible, highlighting ongoing research and developments in the field.

About the REMADE Institute

Founded in 2017, the REMADE Institute focuses exclusively on innovating technologies to facilitate the U.S.'s shift towards a Circular Economy. By fostering collaborations and applied research, it aims to elevate the potential for material reuse and recycling within U.S. manufacturing sectors. For more information about current projects and initiatives, interested parties can check the REMADE Institute’s website.

In conclusion, the REMADE® Tech Summit stands as not just an event—it's a pivotal step towards a sustainable future. Its emphasis on cooperation, learning, and innovation will undoubtedly shape the landscape of the circular economy for years to come.