Global Challenges to Free Trade
Free and fair trade has long been a guiding principle for the Bureau of International Recycling (BIR). However, growing uncertainty in global markets is putting that principle to the test. At BIR’s recent Convention in Bangkok, Olivier François, Chairman of the International Environment Council (IEC), highlighted how protectionist tendencies are emerging within the recycling sector.
He noted that Europe’s strong market for recycled plastics has attracted an influx of cheaper imports. Consequently, many recycling plants are now closing or facing bankruptcy. “Europe is losing nearly one million tons of recycling capacity,” François said. “Authorities have failed to design policies with a global perspective.”
Protection vs. Open Trade
This imbalance is forcing some European recyclers to call for restrictions on imported recycled plastics. François acknowledged that such demands pose a dilemma for BIR, which has always promoted open and fair trade.
He warned that limiting trade could harm the broader circular economy and slow innovation. Instead, he urged for a globally coordinated regulatory approach that balances competition and sustainability.
European Steel and Metal Action Plan
The discussion preceded the presentation of the European Steel and Metal Action Plan (SMAP) by Olatz Finez Maranon, BIR’s Trade and Environment Policy Officer. Although SMAP has no legal status yet, she urged recyclers to stay alert to possible export restrictions, quotas, or fees that could alter the competitive landscape.
She added that the EU may soon offer greater support for clean energy, low-carbon technologies, and updated circular economy legislation to strengthen markets for recycled materials. “It is a great opportunity for recyclers to help shape future policy decisions,” she said.
Basel Convention and Trade Barriers
Alev Somer, BIR’s Trade and Environment Director, discussed complications arising from recent Basel Convention amendments. Since January, all end-of-life electronics — even non-hazardous ones — now require Prior Informed Consent (PIC) for export.
This has created confusion and shipment delays. “Containers are being wrongly impounded for mis-declaration,” Somer said. She emphasized that classification now depends more on origin than composition, leading to inconsistent enforcement.
BIR is actively engaging with UNITAR and ISO to harmonize global recycling standards and ensure that trade in recycled materials remains fair and transparent.
Global Plastics Treaty Update
Bianca Mannini, BIR Trade and Environment Policy Officer, provided an update on the stalled UN Global Plastics Treaty negotiations. Talks in August failed to reach a consensus, splitting countries into two camps.
One group, known as the “high ambition coalition,” supports a full lifecycle approach to plastic pollution. The opposing “like-minded group,” consisting mainly of oil-producing nations, favors voluntary measures instead of binding commitments.
BIR continues to advocate for global collaboration in production, design, recycling, and circularity. “For this work, we need strong industry engagement and technical inputs,” Mannini concluded.
A Call for Global Cooperation
BIR reaffirmed its mission to protect recyclers’ interests while promoting circular economy goals. By encouraging international cooperation and fair trade policies, the organization aims to help recyclers thrive despite rising global uncertainty.
