WCEF Accelerator Session: Unlocking circularity in Small Island States

Globally, circular solutions to plastic pollution, such as EPR, DRS and reuse are advancing at pace.

But how do we prevent Small Island States from being left behind?

Join us online at WCEF2026 to gain valuable insights from leaders across the Caribbean and Indian Ocean on how to design, finance and scale fit-for-purpose circular solutions that drive lasting reductions in plastic pollution in SIDS.

WCEF2026 Accelerator Session Unlocking circularity in Small Island States

Our free online Accelerator Session as part of the World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) 2026 will bring together SIDS policymakers and private sector leaders to discuss which circular economy systems work for SIDS – and the benefits of implementing them.

Drawing from experience across the Caribbean and Indian Ocean, we will explore how regional collaboration and harmonised approaches can overcome scale constraints, improve investment conditions and support delivery across dispersed markets.

Whether you are a SIDS policymaker shaping national policy, an FMCG leader designing sustainable supply chains, or a blue funder looking for investable regional pipelines, this session provides everything you need to know about innovative solutions to plastic pollution in SIDS.

Date: 17th September, 09:00 BST

Location: Online (Zoom)

Secure your place now

The plastic challenge in SIDS

Plastic pollution landfill on narrow strip of land in Tuvalu with sea on either side

Small Island Developing States face disproportionate strain from plastic pollution. Limited land area, small and dispersed waste volumes, high transport costs and distance from end markets mean that incineration and landfill are the only options available.

Although solutions such as Extended producer Responsibility (EPR), Deposit Return Schemes (DRS) and reuse are advancing globally, these are often not designed for the unique context of SIDS.

In 2025, research led by Common Seas and Circulearth explored how a regional approach to EPR could provide a sustainable solution to waste management challenges in remote island geographies, reducing plastic pollution and strengthening blue economy resilience. A Vision Paper presenting the insights was endorsed by 40 organisations globally, including Nestle, WWF and SIDS governments.

About WCEF2026

This webinar is an accelerator session at the World Circular Economy Forum 2026 (wcef2026.com). WCEF2026 is guided by the latest scientific evidence on the most impactful circular solutions. Designed to facilitate targeted discussions that drive the implementation on the ground, the forum is free of charge, open to all online.

More information on the panellists and session schedule coming soon!