New Trade and Environment Policy Officer strengthens BIR’s sustainability advocacy
The Bureau of International Recycling (BIR) has welcomed Bianca to its Brussels secretariat as the new Trade and Environment Policy Officer, a role expected to bolster BIR's commitment to sustainable practices within the recycling industry. Bianca brings a wealth of experience and a passion for environmental sustainability, having dedicated her career to advancing initiatives that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Having started her career in communications for bio-industries and climate/energy projects, Bianca soon shifted her focus to combatting environmental challenges. She founded a non-profit organisation in Italy aimed at reducing single-use plastic consumption, collaborating with both businesses and non-governmental organisations to promote sustainable practices at local and regional levels. This hands-on experience equips her with a nuanced understanding of the complexities within the plastics sector, which will be instrumental as she addresses various commodities—including paper, textiles, tyres, and plastics—in her new role at BIR.
Bianca's academic journey has spanned multiple countries, studying political science in Belgium, Ireland, and the Netherlands. This diverse educational background not only enhances her insights into international policy and environmental resource management but also affords her fluency in English, French, and Spanish. Such linguistic skills are invaluable for engaging with a global audience, as BIR aims to establish a comprehensive advocacy strategy to address pressing environmental issues.
BIR's Director General, Arnaud Brunet, expressed his enthusiasm about Bianca's appointment, noting, “Bianca’s expertise and commitment to sustainability make her a valuable addition to our advocacy team. We are very pleased to have her join BIR and are confident she will significantly contribute to our global efforts.” This sentiment reflects a broader trend of organisations prioritising expertise in environmental policy to navigate the increasingly complex landscape of international trade and sustainability.
Bianca is not the only recent addition to BIR's advocacy team. Earlier this year, Federico Zanotti was also appointed as a Policy Officer for Trade and Environment. Federico brings nearly four years of experience in international trade, energy markets, and diplomacy, with a particular emphasis on non-ferrous metals and critical raw materials. His previous roles included working with a Chinese supplier in the aluminium industry and as an energy journalist in the Middle East. His diverse background complements BIR's focus on fostering conversations around sustainable trade practices, further reinforcing the secretariat's ambitions.
The simultaneous strengthening of BIR's team highlights the organisation's proactive approach to addressing trade-related environmental challenges. As the global economy continues to evolve, there is an increasing need for policy frameworks that encourage sustainable practices across industries. Recent initiatives by entities such as the United Nations Environment Programme and the International Trade Centre underline the importance of integrating environmental considerations into trade policy, thereby advancing a sustainable bioeconomy. These efforts aim to create a supportive environment that fosters innovation and investment in green technologies, which is essential for achieving long-term sustainability goals.
BIR's commitment to expanding its expertise in trade and environmental policy positions it uniquely within the recycling sector. With professionals like Bianca and Federico now on board, there is hope for a comprehensive approach that not only addresses the complexities of recycling and waste management but also champions the principles of circularity and sustainability. This strategic alignment will serve the members of BIR and contribute significantly to the sector’s overall objectives, responding effectively to the growing demands for eco-friendly practices in a globalised economy.