Rethymno – Zero Waste Forum 2026: National Conference on Circular Organic Waste Management
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The Municipality of Rethymno is hosting a national environmental conference titled “Rethymno – Zero Waste Forum 2026: Strategic Planning for Circular Organic Waste Management” on 13–14 October 2026. The event takes place at the Theartemis Palace Conference Center and is organized by the Municipality’s Department of Environment, in collaboration with the Rethymno Hotel Association and the Rethymno Food & Beverage Association.
The forum aims to establish a practical and scalable roadmap for circular economy practices in Greece, bringing together national authorities, local government, academic institutions, tourism and hospitality stakeholders, and citizens. Participation is free of charge, with prior registration.
The conference opens on 13 October at 09:00 and continues on 14 October at 09:45, featuring a program designed to connect scientific expertise with operational needs across municipalities, tourism enterprises and food service operators. Rethymno, a leading tourism destination with an active sustainability agenda, provides an ideal setting for discussions on organic waste management and circular resource use.
The forum’s keynote speakers include figures with significant contributions to environmental policy, public health and waste management. Katia Lazaridi, Professor at Harokopio University and former President of the Hellenic Recycling Organization, will present current approaches to organic material utilization and their applicability in local and regional systems. Antonia Trichopoulou, Emeritus Professor at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens and President of the Hellenic Health Foundation, will examine the intersection of dietary culture, public health and sustainable waste practices. Dr. Antonis Mavropoulos, Founder and CEO of D Waste and former President of ISWA, will outline global trends in organic waste management and the technological solutions emerging in international markets.
The Zero Waste Forum 2026 positions Rethymno as a national reference point for circular organic waste management, offering a structured platform where policy, science and industry converge. With the active involvement of the region’s hospitality and food service sectors—key producers of organic waste—the conference emphasizes practical implementation and cross sector collaboration.
By integrating environmental strategy with operational realities, the forum aims to support municipalities and businesses across Greece in adopting circular models that enhance sustainability, reduce waste and strengthen local economies.
