The Wood Recyclers’ Association (WRA) and The Recycling Association (TRA) have joined forces in a reciprocal arrangement that will see them share expertise and ideas to the benefit of both organisations.
The reciprocal membership agreement was approved by the Boards of the WRA last month and TRA this month. It is aimed at the two trade bodies working more closely on issues that affect the recycling and waste industry, sharing ideas and attending each other’s meetings.
Julia Turner, Executive Director of the WRA said: “Although the WRA is a specialist trade body and The Recycling Association has a broader membership base, there are a lot of synergies between us and our members, particularly over the bigger issues to do with regulation, health and safety etc. By being reciprocal members we can work together and share expertise which will be of benefit to all our members.”
Simon Ellin, Chief Executive of the Recycling Association, said: “Over the past two or three years the recycling industry has evolved like never before and is now part of mainstream politics. We are also seeing increasing challenges in legislation, regulation and changes in the global market place. As a result, collaboration and partnership between sectors is ever more important. Wood is a commodity just like paper and plastics and if we can share knowledge and resources for the greater good, then our respective industries will be stronger as a result. We’re really excited to be working more closely with the Wood Recyclers’ Association, and look forward to a long and mutually beneficial partnership.”
The WRA is the UK’s industry trade body for reprocessors, panel board and biomass companies working in the waste wood sector. It has 111 members and represents over 90 per cent of the waste wood industry.
The WRA acts on behalf of its members to provide a voice for the sector at the highest levels, working closely with the Environment Agency, DEFRA and other trade associations and recycling bodies to influence and advise on issues affecting our industry, including legislation.
It also has links with its German equivalent BAV and the UK-based Resource Association, as well as FEDEREC (France) and the Swedish Wood Fuel Association.
The Recycling Association represents more than 80 UK recycling organisations producing more than 2 million tonnes of recyclate a year. It is the largest network of independent waste and recycling operators in the UK with a combined annual turnover in excess of £2 billion.
The Recycling Association supports better UK recycling through lobbying for improved legislation, policy and operation; working towards increased clarity and awareness; and the provision of best practice or legislative advice to its members.