Recycling federation reports increased global participation, convention attendance, and policy engagement

BIR – Bureau of International Recycling has released its 2025 Annual Report, outlining developments related to membership growth, international advocacy activities, financial performance, and global recycling industry engagement during the year.

Under the presidency of Susie Burrage OBE, BIR’s membership reached nearly 1,100 organisations across 71 countries in 2025. According to the report, the federation recorded significant growth in Asia and the Middle East, while membership retention stood at 86%.

The report also highlighted participation figures from BIR’s World Recycling Conventions held during the year. The Valencia Convention recorded attendance of more than 2,000 participants from 66 countries, while the Bangkok Convention, the organisation’s first event in Thailand, attracted nearly 1,200 delegates.

During 2025, BIR participated in international policy discussions involving the United Nations, the OECD, and the European Union. The federation also contributed to discussions linked to the Basel Convention COP-17, the UN PACE II Working Group, and negotiations related to a Global Plastics Treaty.

According to the report, BIR’s financial performance in 2025 enabled the Executive Committee to maintain membership fees at existing levels for 2026 while supporting investment in additional services, technical expertise, and staffing capacity.

The organisation also expanded its communications initiatives during the year, including the publication of two editions of The Recyclist membership magazine and further development of its digital communication activities.

BIR stated that it is continuing research and studies focused on measuring the environmental and economic contributions of the recycling industry to support advocacy and industry representation activities.

“I am very proud of what BIR achieved for its members in 2025, and I commend our industry for its resilience and adaptability in these uncertain times,” says BIR President Susie Burrage OBE. “BIR remains committed to advancing our members’ interests and strengthening our collective voice globally as we promote recycling as an essential pillar of the circular economy.”

“Our record membership growth in 2025 is a clear sign that recyclers worldwide are looking to BIR for representation, market intelligence and invaluable networking opportunities,” adds BIR Director General Arnaud Brunet. “We will keep building on this momentum - expanding and strengthening our global community.”

The 2025 Annual Report will be available during the upcoming BIR World Recycling Convention, and member companies will receive printed copies by mail.