Young changemakers challenge conventional understanding of the circular economy and explore the changes needed for a just future. Young people play a critical role in driving the transition to a just circular economy. This WCEF2023 session explores the future of the circular economy through the eyes of young leaders. A diverse range of voices challenge the way we currently understand the circular economy and share their perspectives on a circular future centred around social, cultural and environmental justice. Through this exploration, the session identifies the avenues for meaningful change and broadens the horizon on what an inclusive, equitable and sustainable future may entail.

Hosted in Messukeskus, Helsinki, the World Circular Economy Forum 2023 provided a unique opportunity to create momentum for a nature-positive future. From 30 May to 2 June, the WCEF2023 gathered together 1867 game-changers in Helsinki and more the 12 500 views online, from 155 countries.

The Forum presented a focused agenda and harnessed our collective energies on accelerating the needed transition over the coming years, showcasing global change makers and building the capacity to collaborate.

On the main Forum days 30 and 31 May, the plenaries explored cross-cutting themes for a diverse, global audience. They explained circularity’s role for the well-being of nature and the economy, youth’s role in the transition, circularity in financial markets, and future trends for a regenerative and resilient economy.

The parallel sessions brought the themes to life by sharing inspiring and scalable examples of the circular economy. These sessions covered a variety of topics, such as: finance, accounting and metrics, everyday life and health, future skills, regenerative agriculture and forestry, finite materials and energy, mining, trade, strategies and road maps, fashion and textiles, food, construction and the built environment, plastics and packaging, electronics and hydrogen.

On 1–2 June, altogether 40+ Accelerator Sessions organised by WCEF2023 Partners occurred across Helsinki and online. These sessions bridged the Forum’s themes with the daily work needed for a circular transition by focusing on the implementation of existing action agendas.

Please see the Forum website www.wcef2023.com for more information.