Resource Association confirms closure plan

In a statement this afternoon, 27 November, the association confirmed that it took the decision “in the context of changing priorities for its members”.

The organisation said that at a time of economic uncertainty, there has been less demand for the cross-sectoral policy work “that has characterised the role of the Association since its inception”.

As reported by letsrecycle.com on Monday, 25 November, there was uncertainty over the future of the association, and it was confirmed that a statement was to be issued this week (see letsrecycle.com story).

The organisation said it has “championed the economic and environmental benefits of high-quality recycling” since its inception in 2011.

This work included the development of an End Destinations Charter to encourage transparency about what happens to recyclables after they have been collected, as well as the development of the Recycling Quality Information Point (ReQIP).

‘Heavy heart’

Commenting on the decision today, chief executive Ray Georgeson said: “It is with a heavy heart that we make this announcement today, but the time is right for us to close the Association. We are currently exploring opportunities to pass on the baton for some of our activities to strategic partners in the resources industry.

“Speaking on behalf of the members, I know we can be proud of the work we produced in eight years of activity and the influence we have had on the agenda around material quality, transparency and circular economy thinking.”

Members

Resource Association members include those from across the sector, including DS Smith Recycling, Ecosurety, the Kent Resource Partnership, Novelis Recycling, Palm Recycling and Smurfit Kappa.

Mr Georgeson added that all involved can be proud of the work undertaken since the Resource Association’s 2011 inception.

“Speaking on behalf of the members, I know we can be proud of the work we produced in eight years of activity and the influence we have had on the agenda around material quality, transparency and circular economy thinking,” he noted.

Mr Georgeson added: “We are encouraged that many of the key objectives identified when we founded the Resource Association are now present in Defra’s recent Resources and Waste Strategy, as well as in the policies of the Devolved Governments. “

Resource Association chair, Andy Doran, who is also senior manager of sustainability and recycling development for Novelis Europe, said: “The decision to close the Resource Association is not one we have taken lightly, but at a time of reform in the industry, the current focus of our membership has changed.

“On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Ray and Carole for their professionalism and dedication representing the interests of the Association’s members.”