“WEX Global is a fantastic event, it’s a great mix of one-to-one meetings, networking opportunities with a friendly and social atmosphere. You get a lot of time to integrate and work with other people from across the sectors, and from around the world.”
“Each time we go away from WEX Global we come with a handful of new ideas and new partners that we want to work with; new technologies, new utilities that we can exchange experiences with…”
Introducing The WEX Global Bioeconomy Summit
A Global Meeting Point for the Bioresources Economy
The WEX Global Bioeconomy Summit (WEX-BIO) is a global meeting point for the bioresources economy, exploring how organic waste streams, including biosolids, food waste, industrial by-products and agricultural residues can be transformed into valuable resources that fuel the circular, low-carbon economy.
At the heart of this transition is the water and wastewater sector, evolving into a critical platform for capturing, processing and unlocking value from these resource flows through the development of urban bio-refineries. By converting waste into energy, nutrients, bio-based materials and reclaimed water they are becoming engines of a new circular industrial system connecting cities to farms, utilities to energy systems and waste producers to emerging markets for bio-based products.
However, despite rapid progress the transition remains uneven. Regulatory frameworks differ widely between regions, many innovations struggle to scale beyond pilot projects and collaboration between utilities, cities, industry, agriculture and investors is still developing.
WEX-BIO will bring together leaders from across water, agriculture, energy, industry and finance to create a catalytic community focused on the partnerships, technologies and market frameworks needed to accelerate the shift from waste management to resource optimisation and to position water and wastewater infrastructure at the centre of a resilient, digitally enabled and globally scalable bioeconomy.
“From utilities to agriculture, energy, industry and materials markets, the bioeconomy connects
waste streams to the sectors that create value.”
The Challenge
Despite rapid progress in technology development the transition remains uneven.
Regulatory frameworks are evolving, markets for recovered resources are still developing, and many innovations struggle to scale beyond pilot projects. At the same time, collaboration between utilities, cities, industry, agriculture and investors remains fragmented.
The circular bioeconomy will not emerge from technology alone—it requires coordinated transformation across systems, markets and institutions.
The Solution
WEX-BIO has been designed to move beyond discussion and enable real-world implementation by bringing together utilities, cities, industry, agriculture, researchers and investors to:
- Align priorities across sectors and geographies
- Connect technology with capital and delivery capability
- Develop markets for bio-resources
- Address regulatory and public trust challenges
- Accelerate the transition to scalable circular systems
ILUNION Alcora Sevilla
WEX Global 2026 will be hosted at the ILUNION Alcora Sevilla, a contemporary hotel just minutes from the heart of the city. Overlooking the Guadalquivir River, the hotel combines modern comfort with Andalusian charm, offering spacious rooms, elegant event spaces, and a large outdoor terrace perfect for networking and relaxation. With excellent transport links to Seville’s historic centre and airport, ILUNION Alcora Sevilla provides an inspiring and convenient setting for this year’s conference
Visit Lisbon
WEX-BIO will take place in the captivating city of Lisbon. Perched along the banks of the Tagus River on Portugal’s Atlantic coast, Lisbon is known for its golden light, ornate Manueline architecture, and warm, welcoming spirit. The city offers a unique blend of ancient heritage, maritime history, and contemporary energy. Sites and experiences on offer include:
- Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery
- São Jorge Castle
- Praça do Comércio
- Museu Nacional do Azulejo
- Alfama district and its historic Moorish streets
- Padrão dos Descobrimentos
- Eduardo VII Park
- Fado Music Museum
- Pastéis de Belém and the iconic custard tart experience
- LX Factory and the Tagus River waterfront
Find out more at www.visitlisboa.com
FAQs – Frequently asked questions
What are the dates for The WEX Global Bioeconomy Summit?
2nd – 4th November 2026
Where is the venue for The WEX Global Bioeconomy Summit?
The WEX Global Bioeconomy Summit 2026 will take place in Lisbon
What happens once I’ve booked?
Once you’ve confirmed your attendance The WEX Global Bioeconomy team will start working on your behalf. You will be contacted regarding your marketing profile to ensure that it is live online as soon as possible to guarantee your information is available to all delegates attending in advance of the event. The WEX Global Bioeconomy team will work with you, keeping you informed of new attendees and schedule updates.
How many meetings will be organised for me?
There are 12 meeting slots per delegate available over the two main days of the events, split between morning and afternoon. Suppliers are guaranteed a set number of meetings dependent upon the agreed package.
Can I build an exhibition stand or have a demonstration area?
Yes. Although the main concept of the event is based on face-to-face meetings we understand that some products require demonstration. A limited number of 3×2 metre display spaces are available for purchase.
What happens if a buyer delegate doesn’t turn up?
In our experience only a very small number of buyers have a problem at the last minute to mean they can’t attend. Should a problem occur we have an agreement with buyer delegates that they will find a suitable replacement. Should they fail to do so then we reserve the right to charge them a cancellation fee based up on the costs incurred. Our onsite meeting schedulers will be on hand to ensure your meeting is replaced with one of equal calibre.
Can someone refuse a meeting with me?
Yes both supplier and buyer delegates can reject meetings they consider to be wholly inappropriate. In our experience this occurs with less than one percent of arranged meetings and is normally mutually agreed by both the delegate and the supplier.
Can I arrive early?
Yes we encourage it. Please contact The WEX Global Bioeconomy team at info@wexglobal.com to discuss when you would like to arrive. There will be a welcome cocktail party on the night of the 2nd of November.
Does the event organiser handle my travel arrangements or Visa requirements?
No. This is the responsibility of the delegate. However, if you require a Visa letter then please contact The WEX Global Bioeconomy team who will be happy to arrange it.
Are there sponsorship opportunities?
Yes! Please find more information under Sponsors.
What’s happening at WEX-BIO
Link to: Speakers OLD
Hear influential speakers from 40+ countries
Meet the Speakers »
Link to: Agenda
Three full days of discussion and business
See the Agenda »
Link to: Meet-4-Business
Make valuable connections and grow your network
Meet-4-Business »