BIR strengthens Brussels team with Bianca Mannini to boost global recycling advocacy
The Bureau of International Recycling (BIR) has recently welcomed Bianca Mannini to its Advocacy team as the new Trade and Environment Policy Officer in Brussels, a position she officially took up on 6 May 2025. With a robust background in political science and a fervent dedication to sustainability, Mannini's appointment aligns with BIR's expanding focus on effective advocacy in the recycling sector.
Mannini's extensive experience encompasses communications roles in bio-industries and climate-related projects, where she honed her expertise related to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Furthermore, she founded a non-profit organisation in Italy aimed at combating single-use plastics, which reflects her commitment to promoting sustainable practices at a local and regional level. After transitioning to the Netherlands, she successfully managed international projects that sought to mitigate plastic pollution and promote global circular economy principles. This rich combination of experiences equips her with the insights necessary to address the complex challenges in the diverse fields of recycling.
Her responsibilities at BIR will span a wide array of commodities, including paper, tyres, textiles, and plastics—sectors that are vital to the recycling ecosystem and subject to stringent regulatory frameworks. The role will require Mannini to engage with policymakers to advocate for beneficial regulations that support recycling practices. BIR's Director General, Arnaud Brunet, expressed confidence in her abilities, stating that Mannini’s experience will be instrumental in the organisation’s efforts to navigate the evolving landscape of recycling policies.
Mannini's linguistic capabilities in English, French, and Spanish further bolster her suitability for this international role, allowing her to communicate effectively across various stakeholders in the global recycling community. BIR’s advocacy initiatives are particularly timely, given the scrutiny surrounding global recycling efforts and the complex regulatory environment in which they operate. This heightened focus on policy advocacy also reflects BIR’s recognition of the need for a robust response to increasingly convoluted legislative frameworks impacting its members.
The recent International Environment Council meeting held by BIR has brought to light ongoing debates regarding the Global Plastics Treaty initiated by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Presenters during the meeting displayed skepticism about the treaty's potential efficacy and its implications for the recycling market. Alev Somer, BIR's Trade and Environmental Director, highlighted concerns that the treaty might end up being voluntary rather than a legally binding measure. The forthcoming Global Plastics Treaty meeting in Busan in November 2024 is expected to provide further clarity on these pivotal issues.
Mannini's role becomes even more critical as BIR significantly expands its advocacy team. Along with her, several new policy officers have been appointed, including Daša Pauliková, Federico Zanotti, and Daniel Pietikäinen. This expansion is intended to enhance BIR's capacity to influence global regulations and provide effective support for its growing membership, which faces the dual challenge of advocating for recycling while navigating regulatory complexities.
Excitingly, BIR members will have the opportunity to meet Mannini in person at the forthcoming World Recycling Convention in Valencia. This event will not only serve as a platform for networking but also as an occasion to discuss the future of recycling amidst evolving global challenges. Mannini's addition to the BIR secretariat is a promising signal of the organisation's commitment to sustainability and advocacy for its members in a sector that is increasingly vital to global environmental health.