Ahead of 2026’s Resource Conference Cymru, Circular Online explores fives things to look out for at this industry-leading event.
The Resource Conference Cymru 2026 is set to bring together industry leaders, local authorities, and practitioners to explore the future of resources and waste management in Wales. With a focus on sustainability, circularity, and innovation, the conference offers a mix of keynote sessions, breakout discussions, and networking opportunities.
From examining the economics of circular business models to exploring practical approaches for flexible plastics, aggregates, and scrap metal, the event promises insights that go beyond theory. Here are five sessions and discussions to look out for at this year’s conference.
1. Panel: The economics of a circular economy
A key session at Resource Conference Cymru 2026 will tackle one of the sector’s most pressing questions: can circular business models deliver strong financial returns, as well as environmental benefits?
The discussion, ‘The Economics of a Circular Economy’, will be moderated by Jane Hall, Director of Green Edge Applications Limited, and will focus on the financial realities of moving further up the waste hierarchy.
While the environmental case for circularity is well established, demonstrating its economic viability remains a major challenge for many organisations across the resources and waste sector.
Drawing on real-world examples and supporting data, the session will explore how circular approaches can create new revenue streams and reduce overhead costs.
Attendees can expect a practical examination of the commercial aspects of resource recovery, specifically targeting commercial waste operators and local authority strategy leads navigating the evolving policy and market pressures.
The discussion will also examine what current data reveals about circular business models in operation, as well as the economic opportunities that can arise from prioritising reuse, repair and recovery.
2. Breakout workshops
A wide range of breakout sessions at Resource Conference Cymru 2026 will also provide delegates with the opportunity to explore specific challenges and opportunities facing the sector in greater depth.
One session, led by Jane Hall and WRAP’s Emma Hallett, will focus on preparations for the introduction of flexible plastics and film collections in Wales, bringing together insights from local authority trials and discussing practical steps for service changes, communications and rollout planning.
Elsewhere, a workshop led by CIWM Wales Chair Ben Maizey and CEO of WATA UK Andy Hill will examine the role aggregates could play in strengthening circularity within Wales, including examples of reuse in practice and the opportunities for the built environment.
Another session will explore the potential of the scrap metal sector, with Tata Steel’s Ruth Lowe leading a discussion on supply chain challenges, feedstock quality and global market demand.
Delegates will also be able to meet exhibitors from across the industry who will be showcasing solutions and innovations aimed at supporting resource resilience.
3. Welsh policy update
A key session at Resource Conference Cymru 2026 will feature Dr Andy Rees OBE, Head of Waste Strategy in the Welsh Government, providing an update on the latest Welsh Government policies affecting the resources and waste sector.
The discussion will outline incoming regulations and highlight what organisations need to know to prepare for potential changes.
Attendees can expect a clear overview of policy developments, such as the upcoming Welsh Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), which is set to include glass, unlike the schemes in other UK nations.
This session is essential for local authorities, commercial operators, and other stakeholders navigating the shifting regulatory landscape in Wales.
4. Panel: Waste as a resource – Planning for change
Another highlight at Resource Conference Cymru 2026 is the panel discussion ‘Waste as a Resource – Planning for Change’. Moderated by Jane Cherrington, Director – Climate at Local Partnerships, the session will examine how perceptions of waste are shifting and what this means for building more sustainable operations across Wales.
Panellists will explore lessons from circular models, strategies to reach net-zero goals, and how innovative policies can support sector competitiveness.
The discussion will also consider practical implications for workforce health and safety, and the role of individual and organisational actions in creating meaningful impact. Delegates will gain insights into how today’s decisions shape the future trajectory of Wales’s resources and waste sector.
5. Fireside chat: Continuing progressive action
The Fireside Chat: Continuing Progressive Action will look at how Wales can build on its strong recycling record as it evolves its waste management systems and moves towards a more circular economy.
Wales consistently posts some of the highest recycling rates in the world, with the latest figures showing it has risen to 68.4%.
The session will reflect on Wales’s experience as a high‑recycling nation and consider what lessons this offers for future policy and practice as the resources and waste sector continues to evolve.
Book your place today
Secure your place today and network with top industry experts on Wednesday, 25 March at Sophia Gardens, Glamorgan Cricket Club.
