On June 5, 2026, UCLG-MEWA participated in the Zero Waste Forum 2026 in Istanbul, organized by the Zero Waste Foundation under the auspices of the Istanbul Governorate. The Forum brought together over 7,000 participants from 183 countries under the theme “The Road to Antalya: Zero Waste as Climate Action.”
UCLG-MEWA was represented at the forum by UCLG-MEWA Honorary President and Ambassador for the SDGs Mohamad Saadie, UCLG-MEWA Secretary General Dr. Mehmet Duman, Deputy Secretary General Ali Murat Duman, and General Coordinator Yehia Ibrahim, as well as Policy Assistant Kübra Esen.
At the opening ceremony, Samed Ağırbaş, President of the Zero Waste Foundation and COP31 High-Level Climate Champion, stressed that challenges such as climate change, food waste, and the depletion of natural resources demand collective action and international cooperation. Emine Erdoğan, Honorary President of the Foundation, described the Forum as a vital gathering around a shared goal and highlighted Istanbul’s unique role as a cultural crossroads, underlining the importance of zero-waste practices in combating climate change. Anacláudia Rossbach, Executive Director of UN-Habitat, noted that zero waste policies can help cities become healthier, cleaner, and more inclusive, and emphasized the role of waste management in urban development and public health.
The Forum featured thematic sessions on climate action, sustainable cities, waste management, circular economy practices, and international cooperation, providing a platform for sharing experiences and exploring innovative solutions for a more sustainable future.
Through its participation, UCLG-MEWA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting member local governments in promoting sustainable and environmentally responsible urban development across the Middle East and West Asia.
