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13. cycletalk – Rethinking plastics – circular solutions for prosperity

May 6, 2026

Zurich, near main station

Rethinking plastics: Circular solutions for prosperity

Plastics have become synonymous with environmental problems—pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and waste. At the same time, they are an integral part of our everyday lives. They protect food, facilitate mobility, and support healthcare and construction. The challenge lies in how we manufacture, use, and reuse them.

At the 13th cycletalk, we will examine how plastics can become part of a climate-neutral future. The focus will be on circular, climate-friendly plastic use based on scientific findings. We will review existing measures and discuss what else is needed to establish a functioning circular economy. With keynotes, discussions, practical examples, and political and academic perspectives, we will highlight solutions that transform plastics, reduce CO₂ emissions, reduce waste, and keep materials in circulation. An aperitif afterwards will provide an opportunity to deepen discussions, exchange ideas, and make valuable contacts.

cycletalk at Climate Week Zurich

We are hosting the 13th cycletalk during Climate Week Zurich (May 4-9, 2026). Climate Week Zurich is a platform that brings together many stakeholders to drive sustainable change in business, politics, and society. With over 150 curated events, it connects key players to develop solutions for climate innovation, resilience, and sustainable growth at the local and global levels. As part of the first Climate Week Zurich, we are pleased to host the 13th cycletalk together with B Lab Switzerland.

Participation fee

Regular: CHF 150.00

Reduced: CHF 100.00 (for students and employees of NGOs, please indicate «reduced rate» as a comment)

Table exhibition: Places on request to hello@realcycle.ch

Event language: German

cycletalk is realcycle's information and networking platform.

Registration

For registration for cycletalk, additional information will be collected from visitors during Climate Week Zurich (CWZ). Please complete the questionnaire in full to participate. 

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Provisional program

from 13:15

Arrival of participants

all

14:00

Welcome

Melanie Haupt, realcycle

14:15

Keynote: Rethinking plastics

Prof. Dr. Stefanie Hellweg, ETH Zurich

2:40 p.m.

Topic 1: Solutions and challenges
Speakers from politics, science, and industry will provide insights into current challenges and new approaches to solutions.

to be announced

15:40

Break

all

16:10

Topic 2: Joint action
Discover where solutions for plastics are developed, who is driving them forward, and how you can get involved to make a real impact together.

B Lab Switzerland
realcycle
more

17:10

Conclusion and outlook

Melanie Haupt, realcycle
Luca De Giovanetti, B Lab Switzerland

5:15 p.m.

Apéro

all

The event is taking place as part of Climate Week Zurich.

Impressions from the 12th cycletalk