In May, BIR held its 75th World Recycling Convention and Exhibition in Amsterdam and ISRI leadership and staff was actively engaged in the record-breaking event. ISRI’s BIR attendees engaged in discussions regarding a wide range of international recycling issues and major topics related to international trade.
ISRI staff and leadership attending the event included ISRI National Officers: President Robin Wiener, Chair Brian Henesey, Chair-Elect Colin Kelly, Vice-Chair Andy Golding and Secretary/Treasurer Neil Byce. Wiener also serves on BIR’s International Environment Council. ISRI staff representation included Vice President of Sustainability and Advocacy Cheryl Coleman, Chief Economist and Director of Commodities Joe Pickard, and Assistant Vice President of International Trade and Global Affairs Adam Shaffer. Pickard serves on BIR’s Stainless Steel Committee. ISRI Past Chairs George Adams, John Sacco and Doug Kramer were presenters at the event that attracted more than 1,500 worldwide participants.
BIR topics ranged from pressing international trade issues to critical minerals issues. A recurring theme was how the recycled materials industry communicates the benefits of recycling on an international level. Effective communications of the economic, environmental and sustainability aspects of recycling was a focus, as well as the need for collaboration among national and international groups.
“It’s always encouraging to hear just how highly respected ISRI is at these events,” said Pickard. “ISRI is viewed as a leader on a whole range of issues, whether it’s advocacy, education, communications, or networking, and it’s encouraging to hear that from global industry leaders. It’s also great for ISRI leadership and staff to learn from our counterparts and other associations by listening to their issues, comparing notes, and diving deeper into the issues they’re facing and the opportunities that we have to collaborate.”
The next BIR event is scheduled for October 2023 in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
