Practical Info

General Information

The Zero Waste Forum will be held for the first time in Istanbul from October 17-19, 2025. The event is organized by the Zero Waste Foundation, established under the auspices of First Lady Emine Erdoğan, in cooperation with the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change of the Republic of Türkiye.

This international and multi-stakeholder platform is initiated to promote the global adoption of the zero waste approach, strengthen environmental sustainability, and support circular economy practices. The Forum will host public institutions, local governments, international organizations, academia, the private sector, and civil society representatives. It will provide an opportunity to compare zero waste policies, share best practices, and lay the groundwork for new collaborations.

The program will feature high-level policy sessions, multilateral panel discussions, and sessions presenting exemplary practices. Participants will have the opportunity to share their experiences, learn about practices in other countries, and develop joint solutions. The zero waste approach is of critical importance in conserving natural resources, reducing waste generation, minimizing greenhouse gas emissions, and mitigating environmental impacts. It also contributes to economic transformation by encouraging green employment and promoting sustainable production and consumption models. The Zero Waste Forum aims to align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by fostering the global adoption of the zero waste vision and encouraging development based on environmental responsibility.

Forum Venue

The Zero Waste Forum will take place at the Hilton Istanbul Bomonti Hotel & Conference Center from October 17-19, 2025. Located in the central district of Şişli, the venue is well connected to public transportation networks, including bus and metro stops. It is approximately 35 km from Istanbul Airport and 45 km from Sabiha Gökçen Airport.

Address

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Hilton Istanbul Bomonti Hotel & Conference Center
Silahşör Caddesi No:42, Bomonti - Şişli
Istanbul, 34381, Türkiye

Online Registration

Is individual registration required?
Yes, all participants must complete individual online registration. Applications are accepted only via the digital platform. You can register easily through the online application link.

What is the minimum age for participation?
Participants must be at least 16 years old.

Is there a registration fee?
No, participation is free of charge.

How can I register as media?
All media representatives must apply through the general registration portal and indicate their media affiliation during the registration process. To gain entry with broadcasting equipment, a valid national or international press card and a national identity document must be presented during accreditation. The secretariat will follow up with further instructions upon registration.

Can I participate online?
Yes. Online participants will be able to follow the sessions live and take part in selected interactive panels via a digital platform. Live broadcasts will be hybrid. Please check the official website regularly for detailed information and the streaming schedule.

Will certificates be provided?
Yes. Participants who actively participate in designated sessions will receive a digital “Certificate of Participation.”

Who do I contact for technical issues with registration?
In case of technical problems, please contact the support email listed on the registration page.

Languages and Accessibility

What is the official language of the forum? Will interpretation be provided?
The main language of the forum sessions will be English. Simultaneous interpretation between Turkish and English, as well as in other languages if needed, will be provided. Details on interpretation services will be available in the program description. Additionally, interpretation in all six official UN languages (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, and Spanish) is planned.

What support is offered for participants with hearing impairments?
Sign language interpretation will be available throughout the forum.

Will sign language be available in all sessions?
Yes. To ensure inclusivity, sign language interpretation will be provided throughout all sessions of the forum.

Is the venue accessible for participants with disabilities?
Yes, the venue is fully accessible for wheelchair users and includes necessary arrangements for individuals with mobility limitations. The infrastructure ensures safe and comfortable access to all participants.

Program

The dates, times, content, and speaker details of sessions and activities held within the scope of the Zero Waste Forum can be found in the "Program" or "Event Schedule" section on the official forum website.

Event Participation

What type of activities will take place during the forum?
The forum includes sessions and activities focused on zero waste solutions, Climate & Society, Sustainable Cities, and Carbon & Water Footprint calculations. While most events are open to all, selected ones may require invitations.

Is registration mandatory and free?
Yes. Registration is mandatory and free of charge. Entry to the forum venue will not be permitted without prior registration and completion of the application form.

Do I need an invitation letter to attend?
No. You may register online and bring a copy of your registration confirmation email and ID to receive your accreditation badge at the entrance.

Can I be denied entry to the forum?
Yes. The Forum team reserves the right to deny or restrict access to ensure safety and the smooth conduct of sessions. The forum will not cover any expenses incurred by denied participants.

Media Guidelines

Are local and foreign media subject to different accreditation rules?
Local media only require Zero Waste Forum accreditation. Foreign journalists must also apply for Temporary Press Accreditation via pressaccreditation@iletisim.gov.tr through the Directorate of Communications of the Republic of Türkiye.

To arrange interviews with keynote speakers or for more press information, contact our media team at globalzerowaste.org.

Accreditation

When does onsite accreditation begin?
Participants are advised to arrive early and collect entrance documents promptly to avoid delays. Onsite accreditation will take place:

- October 17: 09:00 - 20:00
- October 18: 09:00 - 20:00
- October 19: 09:00 - 19:00

What do I need to bring?
Bring a copy of your email confirmation (with QR code) and the ID used for online registration. Volunteers and staff will be available to assist with directions and inquiries.

Visa and Invitation Letters

Will the forum issue invitation letters?
Yes. Official invitation letters will be sent to registered participants. For visa support, participants should contact the nearest Turkish Embassy or Consulate.

Is a visa required? How do I apply?
Please consult the nearest Turkish diplomatic mission. Include your registration confirmation when applying for a visa. Note that registration does not guarantee visa issuance.

Visa support:
For visa-related inquiries, email info@globalzerowaste.org. Please note that visa approvals are subject to Turkish government policies and are not guaranteed by the forum.