The Close the Glass Loop initiative aims to achieve a 90% glass collection for recycling rate. Its Annual Event 2026 brings together the entire glass packaging value chain to explore how Europe can sustain industrial-scale circularity while maintaining competitiveness and advancing decarbonisation goals.

Europe has built the world's most advanced glass packaging collection and recycling systems, positioning glass as a flagship example of circularity at industrial scale. However, persistently high energy costs, global competition and evolving EU regulations are challenging this achievement. 

With timely discussions on the Circular Economy Act, the implementation of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, and the EU's Clean Industrial Deal, this event is key for anyone shaping the future of glass packaging in Europe.

Sessions will explore:

• How Europe can maintain industrial-scale circularity for glass packaging, with circularity at scale depending on the interaction between factors such as stable and high-performing collection systems and economically competitive secondary raw materials, 
• A joint paper setting out considerations for increasing and improving glass collection and recycling, 
• Projects from national platforms,
• Future Close the Glass Loop projects supporting the collection and recycling of glass packaging and the broader circular economy for glass packaging.

This event will take place in English and in person at 08:30-16:00 CEST on 4 June. Registration and programme.