Brussels, 1 September 2026 – The European Recycling Conference (ERC), Recycling Europe’s flagship annual event, returns to Brussels on 18 March 2027, bringing Europe’s recycling industry back to the heart of EU policymaking at a defining moment for the sector. Recyclers, policymakers, manufacturers, circular economy experts and industry leaders will come together as some of Europe’s biggest circular economy files move from political negotiation to implementation, and attention turns to whether Europe can build the markets needed to deliver on its ambitions.

The Circular Economy Act is set to put markets for recycled materials firmly on the EU agenda, as Europe moves from circular economy targets to delivery. ERC 2027 will focus on what it takes to make that transition work, from stronger demand and competitiveness to trade, investment and functioning markets.

“Europe has spent years setting the direction for the circular economy. Now comes the harder part: making it work in the market,” said Julia Ettinger, Secretary General of Recycling Europe. “Recyclers are ready to supply Europe with the materials it needs. But targets alone won’t get us there. We need real demand for recycled materials, investment in recycling and markets that work. That’s exactly the conversation we want to have at ERC 2027.”

One conference. Three stages.

For the first time in its history, ERC will run across three stages, bringing more sectors, more voices and more focused discussions into one day. The Main Stage will run throughout the day, with a programme dedicated to metals, plastics, paper, and trade, combining high-level panel discussions with exclusive fireside chats. After lunch, ERC will expand to two dedicated Side Stages, running in parallel with the Main Stage and putting the spotlight on tyres and textiles. At the end of the programme, all three audiences will come back together for a networking cocktail reception, offering participants the opportunity to continue the conversation and connect with colleagues from across Europe’s recycling value chain.

Registrations for ERC 2027 will open soon. Programme announcements, speakers, sponsorship and exhibition booth opportunities and practical information will be available HERE.