Scarce resources, geopolitical tensions, fragile supply chains, and climate change: today’s challenges intertwine security of supply, ecological resilience, and economic competitiveness more closely than ever into a dense network. The principle is clear: closing material cycles strengthens not only economic growth but also political capacity to act. Accordingly, the circular economy is no longer an option but a necessity. Yet it remains only part of the solution: future-proof infrastructures emerge only through the interaction of many technologies and strategies – from efficient water and wastewater management to digital tools and cross-sector cooperation. IFAT Munich unites all these topics and, from May 4 to 7, 2026, shows how sustainable transformation can succeed in a holistic way.
60 years of “Solutions for Water, Recycling and Circularity”
For 60 years, the world’s leading trade fair for environmental technologies has accompanied and shaped technological developments, political strategies, and economic innovation. That it is more relevant than ever today is clearly demonstrated by the figures. Five months before the start of the event, exhibitor registrations are already up by 10 percent. Well over 3,000 exhibitors from more than 60 countries are expected. “With an exhibition space of around 300,000 square meters – 18 exhibition halls and large parts of the outdoor area – the unbroken dynamism of the sector is reflected,” says Exhibition Director Philipp Eisenmann. “We are also pleased by the growing interest from politics, science, and business. At a time of economic stagnation, environmental technologies continue to grow and make a significant contribution to Germany as a business location and to Europe’s future viability.”
“The transformation toward a circular and resource-efficient economy is no longer a project for the future, but a prerequisite for stability, raw material resilience, growth, and competitiveness,” adds Dr. Johannes F. Kirchhoff, Chairman of the Advisory Board of IFAT Munich. “IFAT Munich 2026 shows how this transformation can be realized in practice – solution-driven, cross-sector, and globally connected.”
Attractive event program for knowledge transfer and exchange
In 2026, IFAT Munich will once again feature an attractive program. On the Blue Stage, topics such as water resources, water reuse, sewer rehabilitation, and climate-resilient infrastructure will take center stage. The Orange Stage will focus on circular economy and resource efficiency, material flow management, logistics, as well as mobility and technology in municipal and waste management. The Green Stage will offer space for exhibitors to present concrete products, solutions, and innovations and to explain them through direct dialogue. The program will be complemented by solution tours, spotlight areas, cross-industry sessions, and live demonstrations and competitions. The Startup Area will highlight innovative future ideas and cooperation models.
