Press Release
For immediate release
UK to host International Solid Waste Association (ISWA) World Congress
This world-leading event will be hosted by the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM) in London from Monday 28th to Wednesday 30th September 2026.
The ISWA World Congress is the flagship event for the global waste and resource management sector. It serves as a global assembly, featuring elevated plenary sessions, technical site visits, and a rich cultural and social itinerary. The Congress is unique in its ability to bring together practitioners, policymakers, researchers, and academics from around the world to network, collaborate, learn and inspire.
CIWM will work closely with ISWA and other key stakeholders to develop an extensive and inspiring three-day scientific and technical programme of content and activities, including visits to some of the UK’s most advanced resources and waste management facilities. The event will be centred around the theme of ‘Beyond Borders: Facilitating Solutions for Global Waste Management’. It will feature real-world examples and spotlight trailblazers, giving delegates insight into what is happening on the ground in various parts of the world.
Marc Tijhuis, Managing Director of ISWA, said: “The Board of ISWA has chosen CIWM to host its prestigious World Congress in London in 2026, a decision reflecting both CIWM's status as one of the association's founding members and the city's vibrant commitment to sustainability and innovation in waste management.
London is a city at the forefront of environmental initiatives and provides the perfect backdrop for this event, offering a rich tapestry of innovation and a dynamic platform for thought leadership in our field. The collaboration with CIWM in organising the conference will bring a fresh and inventive approach to the programme, integrating cutting-edge research, diverse global perspectives, and interactive sessions designed to foster meaningful exchange and actionable insights among professionals in the waste management industry.”
CIWM has been the National Member of ISWA for the United Kingdom since 1970, representing over 6,600 individual members and 250 organisations in the UK and overseas. CIWM recently announced the acquisition of the Circular Economy Institute (CEI) which saw it assume leadership of the Circular Economy Club (CEC), a global network with over 7,000 members across 140 countries.
Sarah Poulter, CIWM CEO, commented on the successful bid saying: “As a founding member of ISWA, we are delighted to bring the World Congress back to the UK for the first time since 1980. Taking place in the heart of London, the Congress 2026 will provide a unique opportunity to explore global waste management challenges and opportunities in one of the world’s most famous and historic capital cities. We are confident that this will not simply be an event but will provide a forum for the development of the international strategies and commitments we need to maintain momentum in our journey to a world beyond waste.”
The Congress will be followed by technical tours to several state-of-the-art UK waste, recycling and resource management facilities on Thursday 1st and Friday 2nd October. An update on the venue for the ISWA World Congress will be given in due course.
Anyone interested in exploring opportunities for collaboration at the event should contact events@ciwm.co.uk.
ENDS
About CIWM:
CIWM (the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management) is the leading professional body for the resource and waste management sector representing over 6,600 individuals in the UK, Ireland and overseas. Established in 1898 - and now in its 125th year - CIWM is a non-profit making organisation, dedicated to the promotion of professional competence amongst waste managers. CIWM seeks to raise standards for those working in and with the sector by producing best practice guidance, developing educational and training initiatives, and providing information on key waste-related issues.
More information can be found at www.ciwm.co.uk
About ISWA – International Solid Waste Association:
The International Solid Waste Association is the world’s leading international network of waste professionals and experts whose mission is “To Promote and Develop Sustainable and Professional Waste Management Worldwide and the transition to a circular economy.”
More information can be found at www.iswa.org
Press contacts:
CIWM:
Austen Lees
T: 01923 608 360
M: 07773 813 210
E: austen@siriuscomms.co.uk