Mumbai, June 04, 2026: Maharashtra and Finland have reaffirmed their commitment to advancing circular economy and waste-to-value solutions during the Maharashtra Circular Economy Conclave, jointly hosted by the Consulate General of Finland and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA).
Held ahead of the World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) 2026, scheduled to be hosted in India this September, the conclave brought together policymakers, industry leaders, startups, and sustainability experts to discuss opportunities in circular economy infrastructure, resource efficiency, and sustainable industrial development.
The discussions gained significance following Finnish President Alexander Stubb’s recent State Visit to India and subsequent engagements between Maharashtra Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis and Finnish leadership on strengthening cooperation in sustainability and circular economy initiatives.
The conclave focused on Maharashtra’s proposed Circular Economy Policy, ongoing initiatives across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, and strategies to attract investments into sustainable industrial ecosystems. Participants also discussed waste-to-value solutions, recycling systems, and resource-efficient growth models.
Mr. Erik af Hällström, Consul General of Finland, said: “Finland and Maharashtra are focused on building and scaling a forward-looking partnership centred on sustainability, innovation, and trust. During this conclave, we witnessed strong enthusiasm among businesses and policy experts from both countries to expand circular economy discussions beyond conventional waste management. The focus is increasingly shifting towards waste-to-value solutions that can optimise supply chains, strengthen industrial competitiveness, and support resilient urban infrastructure for a climate-conscious future.”
The event also highlighted recent policy measures undertaken by Maharashtra, including an agreement between the State Environment and Climate Change Department and Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages for the collection and recycling of used PET bottles. The state has also approved the Maharashtra State Compressed Biogas (CBG) Policy, allocating ₹500 crore for waste-to-energy and clean fuel projects during FY 2026–27.
Dr. Sanjay Mukherjee, IAS, Metropolitan Commissioner, MMRDA, said: “India, Maharashtra and Mumbai have historically embodied the principles of circular economy long before the concept became globally recognised. From traditional practices of reuse and recycling to community-led resource management systems, sustainability has always been deeply embedded in our way of life. Dharavi remains one of the world’s most remarkable examples of circular economy in action.”
He further emphasised the need to recognise waste pickers and sanitation workers as key contributors to the circular economy while promoting sustainable infrastructure and public transport systems across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
The conclave was organised in partnership with MMRDA, the Embassy of Finland in India, the Finnish Innovation Fund Sitra, and FICCI. The World Circular Economy Forum 2026 will be held in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, marking the first time the global forum is being hosted in Asia.
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