European Recycling Conference (ERC) 2027

9th European Recycling Conference (ERC) 2027 is a one-day international recycling and circular economy conference taking place on 18 March 2027 in Brussels, Belgium. Organised by Recycling Europe, the event brings together recyclers, policymakers, manufacturers, circular economy experts, and industry leaders as Europe moves from setting circular economy targets towards implementation and the development of stronger markets for recycled materials.

Purpose and Objectives

The primary purpose of ERC 2027 is to examine what is needed to make Europe's circular economy work in practice. The conference focuses on strengthening demand for recycled materials, improving competitiveness, encouraging investment, supporting functioning markets, and addressing trade and policy developments affecting Europe's recycling industry.

Key Activities

For the first time, the conference will run across three stages. The Main Stage will focus on metals, plastics, paper, and trade through high-level panels and fireside discussions. Two Side Stages will run in parallel after lunch, focusing specifically on tyres and textiles. The day concludes with a networking cocktail reception bringing together participants from across the recycling value chain.

You’ll explore

• Recycled material demand and market development
• EU circular economy policy and implementation
• Recycling competitiveness and investment
• Metals, plastics and paper recycling
• Tyre and textile recycling
• Trade and the European recycling market

Significance

ERC 2027 is significant because it brings the European recycling industry directly into discussions around the implementation of major circular economy policies. With the EU's Circular Economy Act placing greater emphasis on markets for recycled materials, the conference provides a platform for examining how policy ambitions can translate into functioning markets and increased recycling investment.

Expected Outcomes

Participants can expect insights into European recycling policy, market developments, investment requirements, and sector-specific challenges. The conference is intended to support knowledge exchange, industry collaboration, policymaker engagement, and stronger connections across Europe's recycling and circular economy value chain.