Doha:The sixth Recycling Towards Sustainability Conference and Exhibition 2026 began in Doha on Tuesday, organized by the Ministry of Municipality. The event attracts participation from government and quasi-government entities, private-sector companies, local and international businesses, as well as experts and specialists in recycling, sustainability, and the circular economy.
According to Qatar News Agency, the opening ceremony was attended by ministers, ministry undersecretaries, ambassadors, assistant undersecretaries, and senior officials. These attendees included representatives from both national and international entities, as well as experts and partners.
HE Minister of Municipality Abdullah bin Hamad bin Abdullah Al Attiyah emphasized the conference and exhibition as a national platform for collaboration among government entities, the private sector, and academic institutions. The aim is to share knowledge, showcase innovative solutions, and establish partnerships that will support recycling and sustainability in Qatar.
Al Attiyah highlighted that Qatar has made significant progress, with 45 percent of municipal solid waste diverted from landfills in 2025. The Waste Treatment Center generated over 276,000 megawatt-hours of electricity, processed 10,000 tons of scrap tires, produced 34,000 tons of compost, and recovered 37,000 tons of recyclable materials. Additionally, the production of recycled construction materials at Rawdat Rashed reached 3.9 million tons.
The Ministry is focusing on involving the private sector in recycling industries, with 61 facilities designated for recycling in Al Afja, including 29 operational ones. Investments in 2025 led to the selection of nine investors for new recycling facilities, strengthening private-sector participation and supporting economic diversification in line with Qatar's Third National Development Strategy.
The Ministry is also developing a sustainable waste management system based on efficient resource use and advanced technologies under the 'Zero Waste' initiative. This includes a smart waste management system using digital solutions to enhance service efficiency and data quality, supporting decision-making and operational efficiency.
Al Attiyah stated that sustainability is now a fundamental aspect of future planning, driving economic efficiency and resource protection. The transition to a circular economy requires collaboration across government, private sectors, academic institutions, and the community.
The conference also saw lease agreements with four of the nine selected investors, marking a step in turning investment opportunities into projects. These efforts include constructing a new sanitary landfill in Mesaieed, rehabilitating existing landfills, and establishing a central materials sorting facility and a waste-to-energy facility.
The event explores challenges and opportunities in recycling and sustainability, focusing on innovation and technology's role in developing solutions. A specialized exhibition alongside the conference showcases advanced technologies and solutions, facilitating partnerships and industry growth within the circular economy.
The organization of the event builds on the successes of previous editions, solidifying its position as a platform for decision-makers, experts, and private sector engagement in sustainability and circular economy discussions. The conference aligns with the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030 and NDS3, contributing to a sustainable future for coming generations.