North East Recycling Forum Launches Inaugural NERF Awards to Spotlight Excellence in the Waste Sector

The North East Recycling Forum (NERF) is delighted to announce the launch of the NERF Awards, set to debut at this year’s Annual Conference on 18th November 2025. Now in its 36th year, NERF continues to lead the way as a platform for innovation, collaboration, and celebration within the waste and recycling sector.

Following the landmark 35th anniversary conference in 2024 - highlighted by a powerful presentation from Lecturer Henry Irving on the history and evolution of waste management - the NERF Executive recognised the need to honour the region's achievements and momentum. Inspired by growing environmental awareness and pivotal changes in regulation, the newly established awards will spotlight outstanding contributions across the sector.

The 2025 NERF Awards will feature four categories, all carefully selected to reflect the waste hierarchy and to support the transition toward a circular economy:

• Best Reuse Initiative

• Best Campaign

• Best Waste Minimisation

• Newcomer of the Year

  
  

“These awards are a timely and exciting way to showcase the breadth of talent and commitment to exemplary waste management that exists within the NERF network. From grassroots reuse projects to strategic waste minimisation efforts, we want to recognise those pushing boundaries and making tangible change.”

The Newcomer of the Year category is a special nod to the next generation of waste professionals, those entering the sector with fresh energy and innovative ideas that will help shape the future of sustainable resource management.

NERF has long been recognised as a hub for knowledge exchange and sector-wide collaboration, bringing together professionals from across local authorities, businesses, academia, and non-profits. The introduction of the NERF Awards builds on this legacy, offering a new way to celebrate best practice and inspire continued progress.

Submissions are now open via the NERF website and the deadline for applications is the 16th October 2025, with winners to be announced during a dedicated ceremony at the Annual Conference in November.

For any further information please contact info@nerf.org.uk, or visit www.nerf.org.uk.