The BIR World Recycling Convention in Amsterdam (22-24 May 2023) is one for the history books. As well as celebrating BIR’s 75 years in the city of its birthplace, the focus at the event will be on a modern, connected future which puts international recycling at the heart of the circular and global economy. And leading this future will be BIR’s first female President, Susie Burrage OBE of Recycled Products Ltd, who took over the role from outgoing President Tom Bird at the organisation’s Annual General Assembly on 23 May.
“BIR has much of which to be proud now and throughout its rich history,” comments Bird. “As an organisation, and as an industry, we are adaptable, able to flex to match whatever challenge has been thrown at us. Time and again we not only bounce back, but we thrive. I am proud to have served the organisation for the last four years, through one of the most difficult times in its history thanks to COVID. I am just as proud to handover my Presidency to Susie Burrage, her appointment is a testament to the inclusive nature of our ever-changing industry.”
“It is a true honour to accept my Presidency in the birthplace of BIR and at such a record-breaking convention,” says Burrage. “My mission is to build on the incredible platform created by Tom Bird, the BIR Executive Committee and the secretariat under the leadership of Arnaud Brunet. My vision is to increase the volume on the environmental impact we make and showcase BIR and recycling as the sustainability-forward, innovation-rich and economically vital industry that it is.”
A new treasurer, Dhawal Shah of Metco Ventures LLP (IND), will also step into his post during the Convention, taking over from Andy Wahl of TAV Holdings Inc (USA).
Further milestones achieved at the Amsterdam Convention include the largest ever attendance at 1,500 delegates (a sell-out), and the announcement that membership numbers are at an historic high of almost 1,000. Two milestones which underpin the growing recognition of recycling’s commercial and reputational importance, and the vibrancy and continued growth of one of the world’s most forward-looking industries.
“What a way to honour our birthday, proving what an energised, dynamic and innovative industry BIR represents,” comments Arnaud Brunet, Director General, BIR. “As an organisation and an international collective, we have tackled the tumultuous storms of the past few years together, and our focus at BIR on representation and advocacy has paid dividends, as shown in the milestone numbers we share today.”
