Founded in 1948, BIR was the first federation to support the interests of the recycling industry on an international scale. Today, BIR represents over 760 member companies from the private sector and 37 national associations, in more than 70 countries. Together, these members form the largest international recycling federation.
BIR comprises four Commodity Divisions : iron & steel, non-ferrous metals, paper and textiles, and has four Commodity Committees dealing with stainless steel & special alloys, plastics, tyres & rubber, and E-scrap.
The federation provides a dynamic forum for its members to share their knowledge and experience. It serves as a platform to establish successful business relations and to promote recycling among other industrial sectors and policy makers.
BIR is a non-profit organisation under Belgian law. BIR statutes (Articles of Association) and Internal Regulations (including Guidelines for Chairpersons) were revised and approved in February 2019. The registered office is currently headquartered in Brussels, Belgium.