The Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM) has announced that the Queen Elizabeth II (QEII) Centre in Westminster will be the venue for the ISWA 2026 World Congress.
Scheduled for 9-11 November 2026, the event is expected to attract 1,300 delegates from over 50 countries.
CIWM says the UK’s selection as the host country recognises its vibrant commitment to sustainability and pioneering waste management services and reaffirms CIWM’s role as a founding member of ISWA.
Widely regarded as the most influential platform worldwide for promoting best practices, policies, and technologies, CIWM says, the ISWA World Congress aims to address the urgent global waste challenge.
With over 2 billion tonnes of municipal waste currently generated annually, and projections indicating an 81% increase by 2050 if current trends continue, the event seeks to set in motion ‘transformative solutions and policies’.
The Congress’s aims are to:
- Showcase innovative policies, infrastructure, and best practices from around the world to inspire global progress.
- Highlight the importance of sustainable waste management in protecting health, the environment, and economies.
- Address the risks of poor waste practices and advocating for circular economy principles.
- Promote resource efficiency, resilience, and economic and social benefits through real-world examples.
- Foster international collaboration and strengthening networks in waste management.
- Move the world beyond waste to a sustainable future.
Commenting on the announcement, CIWM CEO, Sarah Poulter, said: “We are honoured that CIWM is hosting the ISWA 2026 World Congress here in London and are excited to welcome professionals from around the world to this historic and vibrant city.”
“This event is about much more than the three days we will bring people together; it is a powerful opportunity to build on the Congress’ 50-year history by creating a lasting legacy and driving real advancements in how we manage waste globally.”
“It aligns perfectly with CIWM’s commitment to delivering a world beyond waste, fostering innovation, collaboration, and sustainable solutions that will shape the future of resource management for generations to come.”
Marc Tijhuis, Managing Director of ISWA, commented: “ISWA is delighted to return to the United Kingdom after 30 years with its annual flagship event, celebrating a longstanding collaboration with CIWM as one of the founding members of the Association.”
“We look forward to convening in London, a hub for innovation in sustainability, circularity and waste and resource management.”
CIWM will officially become the 2026 Congress host during the closing ceremony of the ISWA 2025 World Congress in Buenos Aires, Argentina, this week.
CIWM is a professional body for the resource and waste management sector that represents over 8,000 professionals and 250 organisations across the UK, Ireland, and internationally.
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