Recycling International’s fourth edition of the Top 100 most inspiring recyclers from around the world has flooded our inbox with responses. What are people saying?
The 2024 Top 100 was recently published. Recyclers from 34 countries made the list this year. Who? You can find the complete list here and read the new magazine in our online library.
Multiple generations
‘We’re proud to be recognised as one of the leading organisations in recycling,’ says Javier Perez (#5) of Mexico’s Recicla Centro. ‘It’s very important for our team. What’s more, I had the chance to share it with our founders and they felt very proud of what we had become as the third generation in the business.’
‘I am thrilled to represent Grupo Altadill and Spain among so many inspiring leaders in global recycling,’ says Natalia Altadill (#47). The ceo of the family-owned recycling firm plans to ‘push for a more sustainable future to make a real difference’.
Excellence means responsibility
‘I am truly honoured to be included in Recycling International’s list of the most influential people in our industry,’ says Kubilay Karul, regional manager of SA Recycling (#8) in the US. ‘I deeply appreciate the hard and effort that went into creating this list. The kind words serve as a motivation to continue striving for excellence in my field.’
‘Receiving recognition from international media fills me with immense pride and gratitude,’ says Sanjay Mehta (#1). ‘I am privileged to be part of such a remarkable industry where associations and members strive to transform waste into valuable resources. It is this collective effort that makes our industry thrive.’
Mehta adds: ‘I am aware that recognition comes with more responsibility. I take my responsibilities seriously and I am committed to advocating for policies that support India’s recycling industry. MRAI aims to ensure that our recyclers’ contributions are acknowledged and valued at all levels of government.’
Group effort
‘Humbled to be part of the Top 100 of the world’s most inspiring and innovative people in recycling,’ says Stuart Kagan, founder of Born Scrappy (#15) in New Zealand. ‘Even though the list is filled with incredible people, the metal recycling industry is full of unsung heroes. The hardest working and never stopping people who keep the circular economy rolling.’
‘I am extremely proud of being mentioned in Recycling International’s Top 100,’ says Danish recycler Mogens Bach (#44). ‘More than anything, this is a strong recognition of the work of all employees at HJ Hansen Recycling Group. Every day, they bring our company forward, striving to give resources new life.’
Rom Patel (#29) says he is grateful to be included while pointing out that the hard work of many recycling players is rarely ‘formally acknowledged’. ‘All our work is equally vital to making this industry truly inspiring. Together, we are shaping a more sustainable and innovative future.’
More women in recycling
‘I wanted to end the week with a big shout out to Recycling International,’ says UK recycler Amy Bird (#2). ‘It is actively creating a space to celebrate women in our industry. There are some truly excellent women on the influential list. We’re a global bunch with one thing in common: our drive to make positive change.’
ReMa’s president Robin Wiener (#66) congratulates several members for earning a place in the Top 100. They include Brandi Harleaux, ceo of South Oast Recycling, and Nidhi Turakhia, ceo of Allied Alloys.
‘Being part of the Top 100 is such a privilege,’ says Turakhia. ‘I am grateful to be included alongside so many people I admire and am lucky to call my friends.’
Uplifting people, finding new talent
UK recycler Susie Burrage (#32) was pleased to be featured for a fourth time. The BIR president is ‘thrilled’ to be recognised alongside so many of her ‘esteemed’ global colleagues. She also observes it is key to shine a spotlight on new recycling talent.
‘It’s a privilege to be included among such a dynamic group of recycling leaders,’ says Canadian Jacqueline Lotzkar (#14). She underlines the importance of uplifting industry leaders across the world.
‘Wow. Thanks a million! I am still in shock that I was included in such a cool list alongside so many amazing people,’ says US-based writer and recycling educator Jessica Alexanderson (#99). I am beyond excited to see what we can achieve together in 2025.’
‘A big thank you to Recycling International for continuously promoting our industry,’ says Greenland America’s George Voyatzis (#39).
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