A global jury has awarded Sydney the right to stage the prestigious Asia Pacific Circular Hotspot in 2026, selecting the joint proposal from Circular Australia, the University of New South Wales (UNSW) and Business Events Sydney (BESydney). The jury highlighted the bid’s explicit inclusion of Pacific nations, its ambition to strengthen connections between circular economy and climate action, and its focus on addressing urgent waste challenges. Sydney succeeds Taiwan, which hosted the region’s inaugural Circular Hotspot on 21–23 October. Some 500 participants from 47 countries shared the latest circular insights during the event.

Sydney bid centres Pacific inclusion and climate-linked circular action

Circular Australia CEO Lisa McLean said the city would “build new connections and create lasting circular impact.” NSW Premier the Hon Chris Minns framed the decision as recognition of the state’s Circular Economy Policy and procurement-led Choose Circular initiative to stimulate demand for recycled materials. UNSW Scientia Professor Deo Prasad underlined the regional importance, noting a thriving Asia Pacific circular economy can help address waste, pollution and climate risks across Asia, Australia and Oceania. Amanda Lampe, CEO of BESydney, welcomed the opportunity to position Sydney and Oceania “at the forefront of a movement” and stressed the event’s potential to ignite partnerships and practical solutions.