BIR Reinforces Global Recycling Advocacy Amid Market Uncertainty

BIR urges collaboration and open markets to safeguard global recycling industries.

At the BIR World Recycling Convention in Bangkok, leaders emphasized the need for global cooperation, balanced policies, and fair trade in the recycling sector as protectionist pressures grow.

At the BIR World Recycling Convention & Exhibition in Bangkok, the Bureau of International Recycling (BIR) reaffirmed its commitment to free and fair trade in recycled materials amid growing protectionist pressures and global policy shifts.

Addressing delegates, Olivier François, Chairman of BIR’s International Environment Council (IEC), emphasized that while free trade remains central to BIR’s mission, the recycling sector—particularly Europe’s recycled plastics industry—is under strain. “Many recycled plastic producers in Europe are closing or going bankrupt due to regulatory imbalances,” he noted, adding that the EU’s export bans for environmental reasons have led to the loss of nearly one million tonnes of recycling capacity.

François underscored that protectionist approaches risk undermining recycling progress, as the EU remains one of the world’s top exporters of recycled metals such as steel, aluminium, and copper.

Olatz Finez Maranon, BIR’s Trade and Environment Policy Officer, introduced the European Steel and Metal Action Plan (SMAP), warning that export limits and fees could have global repercussions. She highlighted opportunities for recyclers to actively shape future trade and circular economy legislation, urging the sector to “become co-designers of EU and global policies toward climate and industrial resilience.”

Further discussions covered BIR’s response to China’s proposal for an ISO recycled steel classification, which overlooks long-established international standards like EFR and ISRI/ReMA. Alev Somer, BIR’s Trade and Environment Director, called for expert input to frame an official response.

Somer also addressed the Basel Convention amendments that now classify all end-of-life electronics under the Prior Informed Consent (PIC) procedure, leading to confusion and disruptions in Southeast Asia. “The amendment’s impact extends beyond electronics—it affects non-ferrous trade as well,” she said, noting instances where containers of Zorba were impounded due to misclassification.

Bianca Mannini, BIR Trade and Environment Policy Officer, concluded the session by updating members on the stalled UN Global Plastics Treaty, with negotiations split between a “high ambition” coalition seeking lifecycle regulation and a “like-minded” group of oil-producing nations preferring voluntary measures.

Mannini reaffirmed BIR’s focus on promoting circularity through better design, production, and recycling practices, urging stronger industry engagement in global policy frameworks.

BIR continues to advocate for balanced regulation, open markets, and data-driven collaboration through initiatives such as the Global E-Waste Monitor 2027 and studies on global trade flows of recycled metals.