A leading figure in the global recycling scene, Dutchman Fred Nijkerk has passed away at the age of 95. The Bureau of International Recycling calls him ‘one of the most respected voices’ in the industry’s long history.
Nijkerk was present at the founding of BIR in Amsterdam nearly eight decades ago, and he remained a steadfast supporter of the organisation and its mission throughout his lifetime, says the world recycling organisation.
Family business
A graduate in law from Leiden University (1954), Nijkerk joined his family’s scrap business in Amsterdam two years later, becoming the sixth generation to lead the company established in 1823. Over an extraordinary 52-year career, he played a vital role in advancing both the scrap and ship dismantling sectors, and later served as Chairman of the Shell-Billiton Recycling Division.
Serving BIR
His influence extended far beyond his own enterprise. Nijkerk’s leadership shaped the direction of several major industry bodies: he served as president of the Dutch metal recycling federation (MRF) for seven years, president of the Dutch scrap association for an 26 consecutive years, and held several key posts within BIR, including vice president of the Ferrous Division, and vice president of the Shredder and Stainless Steel Committees.
Magazine maker, too
A passionate communicator and educator, ‘Mr Recycling’ as he was called, founded Recycling Magazine Benelux in 1966, serving as the publiocation’s chief editor for moere than 25 years. He also wrote Handbook of Recycling Techniques (1995), which reached readers in 86 countries. Since 1998, his expert analyses and market reports on ferrous and stainless steel scrap appeared in Recycling International.
His deep knowledge of the industry and its evolution also enriched BIR’s publications, including the organisation’s 60th anniversary brochure and the historical overview Recycling Through the Ages, both of which remain available on the BIR website.
Royal approval
In 1992, Her Majesty Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands honoured Nijkerk with a Knighthood for his outstanding contributions to industry and society. He attended his 100th BIR Convention in Milan in 2005 – a remarkable milestone – and was named an Honorary Member of BIR in 2008, recognising a lifetime of dedication to the global recycling family.
An inspirator
´Nijkerk’s pioneering spirit, vision, and unwavering belief in the power of recycling to shape a better world will continue to inspire generations,´BIR says in a statement. ´He will be remembered with deep respect and gratitude by colleagues and friends across the globe.´
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