The Wood Recyclers’ Association (WRA) has celebrated its 25th anniversary with a landmark industry event near Birmingham, bringing together leading figures from the UK waste wood industry, regulators and resource management professionals.
Held at the Forest of Arden Hotel and Country Club on 2 July, the conference, awards ceremony and evening celebration attracted more than 160 delegates. Representatives from across the waste wood recycling supply chain attended the occasion. Industry experts, regulators and senior stakeholders also took part.
The event reflected on the significant progress achieved over the past quarter of a century. It also explored future opportunities for the sector as sustainability, resource efficiency and circular economy ambitions continue to shape the industry.
The WRA was established in 2001 when a small group of wood recycling businesses united to represent the interests of the sector. Their aim was simple. They believed that stronger collaboration would create a stronger voice for the industry.
At the beginning of the association’s journey, the panel board industry remained the principal destination for recovered timber. Around 400,000 tonnes of waste wood were processed annually. At the same time, commercial wood recycling was beginning to expand across the United Kingdom.
The sector has transformed considerably since then.
Today, approximately 4.5 million tonnes of waste wood generated each year across the UK have established end markets. The industry now contributes an estimated £1.2 billion annually to the national economy. Its activities also support landfill diversion, improve resource efficiency, strengthen energy security and contribute towards the UK’s net zero ambitions.
Membership has also expanded steadily. The association now represents more than 120 member organisations, accounting for around 90% of all waste wood processed throughout the country.
The anniversary conference featured a comprehensive programme covering industry achievements and emerging challenges.
The morning session was hosted by award-winning magician and speaker Ben Hanlin. Alongside entertainment, he reflected on the history of the association before delivering a presentation focused on the importance of human connection within business and professional relationships.
A panel discussion examined the role of the circular economy in shaping future resource management. The session was chaired by Dr Adam Read MBE, Chief External Affairs and Sustainability Officer at Suez UK.
Further industry insight was provided by Troy Aharonian, Associate Director of the Net Zero Transition at Madano. His presentation highlighted the contribution made by the waste wood sector towards national energy security and carbon reduction objectives.
One of the key moments during the conference was the presentation of the WRA Awards.
Outstanding organisations and individuals were recognised. Excellence in environmental performance, innovation and industry advocacy was acknowledged through the awards programme. Recognition was given to businesses and professionals who have delivered meaningful contributions to the sector’s continued development.
The afternoon programme continued with a series of specialist presentations.
Chris Deed, Deputy Director of Waste and Resources at the Environment Agency, shared regulatory perspectives affecting the industry. Vicki Hughes, WRA Technical Lead and the newly appointed President of the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM), also addressed delegates. Jonathan Wood, Chief Commercial Officer at sustainable aviation fuel company NOVA PANGAEA TECHNOLOGIES, outlined developments relating to sustainable fuel production and the growing role of recovered wood resources.
Throughout the event, the industry’s continued commitment to innovation and collaboration remained a consistent theme.
Mark Hayton, Chair of the Wood Recyclers’ Association, described the anniversary as an important milestone for the organisation and the wider sector.
He said reaching 25 years demonstrated the resilience, innovation and shared commitment shown by businesses operating throughout the industry. He also noted that better use of natural resources remains central to the association’s long-term vision.
According to Hayton, the sector has achieved substantial progress within a relatively short period. He expressed confidence that continued collaboration would create further opportunities over the next 25 years.
Following the formal conference sessions, delegates attended an evening celebration featuring outdoor lawn games and a barbecue. The relaxed setting encouraged networking while allowing attendees to reflect on the industry’s achievements and future direction.
The anniversary event was supported by headline diamond sponsor Seras. Gold sponsorship was provided by Blue Machinery, Doyle Machinery, EGGER Timberpak, Enva, letsrecycle.com, RWM Expo, and Vermeer UK & Ireland.
Their support reflected the strong partnerships that continue to strengthen the waste wood recycling sector.
Looking ahead, the association believes collaboration will remain essential as environmental regulations evolve and demand for sustainable materials increases. Greater innovation is expected to support improved resource recovery while strengthening the UK’s circular economy.
Hayton concluded that the anniversary was not only an opportunity to celebrate past achievements but also a chance to focus on future ambitions. He emphasised that wood recyclers occupy a key position within the circular economy and that continued cooperation across the industry will help unlock additional environmental and economic benefits in the years ahead.
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