Industry perceptions of waste are being redefined by the upcycling movement, which views it as an untapped source of innovation and value rather than a problem. Upcycling has emerged as a key megatrend enabling the creation of high-value materials from waste and by-products for food, cosmetics, packaging, textiles, and biotech industries. The growing regulatory mandates to minimize waste, maximize resource utilization, and enable sustainable value creation, along with rising consumer preference for eco-friendly solutions and advancements in fermentation technology and AI-driven resource optimization, are accelerating the shift towards a circular economy.

• In what ways will the growing significance of sustainable upcycling propel the growth trajectory of the circular economy and reduce carbon footprints?
• Which transformative business models and growth opportunities can help in advancing upcycling?
• How can you optimize growth strategies based on the technological ecosystem and regulatory landscapes that allow waste and by-products from various industries to be turned into high-value products?