From 11–15 May 2026, around 70 members and staff from across Europe gathered in the beautiful surroundings of Bohinjska Bistrica, Slovenia, for the annual Zero Waste Europe Network Gathering (NWG). As Zero Waste Kiel, we were grateful to be part of this inspiring week of exchange, collaboration, and community.
The Network Gathering is much more than a meeting. It is a unique opportunity to reconnect with colleagues and friends from across the Zero Waste movement, share experiences, celebrate achievements, and learn from one another. This year, participants explored a wide range of topics, including food waste prevention, reuse systems, extended producer responsibility (EPR), textiles, environmental justice, anti-incineration campaigns, and zero waste cities.
Through workshops, open-space discussions, thematic stations, and informal conversations, members exchanged practical solutions and ambitious ideas. Topics ranged from deposit return systems and textile management to behavioural change campaigns, toxic-free municipalities, and innovative approaches to reuse. The gathering also included a learning expedition to the nearby town of Bled and plenty of opportunities to strengthen personal connections across the network.
Important decisions were made during the week, including the approval of financial plans and the re-election of board members. Even more importantly, new collaborations were sparked, ongoing projects advanced, and future priorities shaped collectively.
For us at Zero Waste Kiel, the Network Gathering always serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when committed people work together toward a common vision. We return home full of ideas, inspiration, and motivation—often a little overwhelmed by the sheer amount of knowledge, passion, and creativity shared within the network.
We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Zero Waste Europe, the organising team, and all network members. The tremendous amount of work, dedication, and expertise contributed by organisations across Europe makes this movement what it is today. It is a privilege to be part of such a supportive and ambitious community.
Thank you to everyone who made NWG 2026 possible. We are already looking forward to continuing the conversations, collaborations, and collective action in the months ahead.
Blog article picture: credit @Polona Ponikvar