The first North West Resources Forum (NWRF) took place on 29 April 2025, bringing together professionals from across the waste and resources sector, to share best practice, collaborate and network with their peers. Genee Consulting Ltd, the organisers of the event, were thrilled with the enthusiasm for the forum from the sector, demonstrated through the attendance at the launch event and engagement with the topics and discussions on the day.
Hosted at the Greater Manchester Renew Hub, the event showcased the power of partnership in a space dedicated to environmental and social impact. As the UK’s largest reuse facility, the Hub provided a fitting venue; its mission to reduce waste and give back to local communities resonated deeply with the forum’s themes of circularity, social value, and sector-wide progress.
A dynamic programme and expert speakers
The forum featured a dynamic programme of expert speakers who shared insights, strategies, and ambitions for the future of the sector:
- Claire Shrewsbury, speaking on behalf of WRAP, highlighted innovations and forward-looking strategies driving the circular economy.
- Vicki Hughes from CIWM spoke about the importance of professional development and upskilling, and how these efforts can unlock growth for the sector through circular economy initiatives.
- Dave Cairns from the Environment Agency outlined the EA’s priorities for 2025, offering delegates valuable regulatory insights to support planning and compliance.
- Claire Williams gave an overview of the Renew Hub, illustrating its measurable impact on waste reduction and community benefit, demonstrating what’s possible when reuse and repair are put into action at scale.
Catering was provided by Open Kitchen, whose ethos of sustainability and social value made them the ideal partner for the day. Their commitment to low-waste, ethically sourced food added a meaningful dimension to the event which aligns with the forum’s values.
Nathan Hughes, Business Development Manager for Alfred H Knight and now a member of the newly formed NWRF Executive Team, said:
If you missed it, you missed a big one – an absolutely outstanding launch for the NWRF, with big hitters in the sector coming to see what NWRF is all about. Amazing spread of Councils represented and a brilliant venue.
Copying the North East Recycling Forum
The NWRF is built on the model of the long-standing North East Recycling Forum (NERF), and the enthusiasm at this inaugural event confirmed the appetite for a similar platform in the North West. The forum will continue with quarterly meetings across the region and an Annual Conference, all designed to foster collaboration, share best practices, and respond to emerging challenges.
Jo Holmes, Managing Director of Genee Consulting Ltd and facilitator of NWRF, reflected on the launch:
The energy in the room was fantastic and the Renew Hub was an inspiring backdrop for these important conversations – we’re thrilled to see such strong engagement from across the sector. This is just the beginning of what we hope will become a vital network for the North West.
How to get involved
Organisations are invited to get involved by becoming a ‘Friend of the North West Resources Forum,’ with tiered sponsorship opportunities offering exclusive benefits and visibility.
For more information on future events, speaker opportunities, or to join the network, visit www.nwrf.org.uk or contact jo@genee.org.uk.
