Newport 01633 277 755  Pontypool 01495 762 611

Ruth Jones MP and BMRA Visit Harold John (Metals): A Step towards a Sustainable Circular Economy

Last week, Ruth Jones MP for Newport and Shadow Minister for Defra, visited W. Harold John (Metals) in Newport along with executives from the British Metals Recycling Association (BMRA). The purpose of the visit was to gain first-hand knowledge about the metals recycling industry and explore the challenges faced by various industries in terms of workforce, trade, and the evolving global supply chain.

 

The BMRA plays a crucial role in promoting the metals recycling industry while safeguarding the interests of its member companies. With a strong focus on sustainability and a circular economy, the BMRA advocates for responsible practices in metal recycling, emphasising the importance of reducing waste, conserving resources, and minimising environmental impacts. The BMRA’s collaboration with Ruth Jones and other key stakeholders is crucial in steering UK and European legislation related to the metals recycling industry.

 

Ruth Jones MP’s visit to W. Harold John (Metal) signifies the commitment of key decision-makers to engage with local businesses and industry representatives to better understand their challenges and explore potential solutions. During her visit, Ruth Jones aimed to gain a better understanding of the circular economy and its relevance to the metals recycling industry. The circular economy seeks to transform the traditional linear “take-make-dispose” model into a closed-loop system where materials are recycled, reused, or repurposed to reduce waste and maximise resource efficiency. By supporting businesses like W. Harold John, decision-makers like Ruth Jones can help shape policies that encourage sustainable practices and minimise the environmental footprint of various industries.

 

One of the key topics discussed during the visit was the new permit system designed to combat illegal scrap dealers. Illegal activities within the scrap metal industry not only harm legitimate businesses but also pose significant environmental and safety risks.

 

Will John, Managing Director of W. Harold John (Metals), said, “We’re delighted to have welcomed Ruth Jones MP and executives from BMRA to show them our site and discuss the new permit system, aimed at curbing illegal scrap dealers. Everything we do at W. Harold John is committed to recycling and contributing to a circular economy, and it’s great to have support from key decision-makers. Through ongoing dialogue and partnerships, the metals recycling industry can continue to thrive and play a vital role in building a more sustainable future.”