Introducing the North West Resources Forum: A New Platform for the Waste & Resource Management Sector Across the North West.

A new industry initiative is set to enhance collaboration and knowledge-sharing across the waste and resources sector in North West England. Genee Consulting Ltd is proud to announce the launch of the North West Resources Forum (NWRF), a dedicated platform bringing together waste professionals from local authorities, private sector companies, and third-sector organisations. The inaugural event will take place on 29th April 2025, at the Renew Hub in Trafford Park, Manchester.

The North West Resources Forum builds on the long-term success of the North East Recycling Forum (NERF), a well-established network that has been running for over 35 years. The North West counterpart will offer quarterly meetings at various locations across the region, as well as an Annual Conference, providing delegates with a space to share best practices, hear from industry experts, and explore potential collaborations.

A New Hub for Industry Networking and Innovation

The North West Resources Forum is a space for professionals from across the breadth of the waste and resources sector to network and collaborate, fostering valuable discussions and partnerships. The NERF has set a benchmark for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and sectoral impact in the North East. Now, NWRF brings the same spirit of innovation and co-operation to the North West, offering:

• Regulatory Insights & Support – Expert-led discussions to help organisations adapt to new and upcoming legislation.

• Innovation & Best Practice Sharing – A forum to explore cutting-edge solutions and drive sustainable advancements.

• Networking & Collaboration – A thriving community of peers, partners, and thought leaders working together for a stronger sector.

  
  

Jo Holmes, Managing Director of Genee Consulting Ltd, commented on the forum’s launch:

“I have been facilitating the North East Recycling Forum for over 20 years, and we were so pleased to celebrate its impact at the NERF’s 35-year celebration last November. Many attendees felt the momentum of the resources sector at our last conference, with one of our speakers noting that this is a pivotal moment in time for the waste sector. This is why we now want to bring the opportunity of a like-minded forum to the North West, through the North West Resources Forum. We are so grateful to WRAP for supporting us to establish the forum In the North West, replicating the excellent model that works in the North East, offering regular opportunities for sharing best practice and bringing together colleagues from all parts of the sector to encourage collaboration and knowledge sharing without any competition. I’m originally from the North West, so the opportunity to establish the NWRF feels very serendipitous on a personal level, but also as a team at Genee Consulting, we are relishing the opportunity to support the North West sector as we do in the North East.”

Industry Support for the Forum

Long-time NERF attendee and waste sector expert Nathan Hughes, from Alfred H Knight International, shared his enthusiasm for the launch:

“Exciting developments are on the horizon—the launch of the North West Resources Forum (NWRF) will be a fantastic resource for the region. About a year ago, I discussed with Genee the possibility of establishing a group similar to NERF in the North West. I’ve said this before, but there is simply nothing like it in other regions of the UK. Now that vision is becoming a reality with the birth of NWRF.

NERF has long been a firm favourite in the waste and recycling industry, featuring outstanding speakers, strong attendance, and valuable networking opportunities with waste management companies, local authorities, and the wider public sector for over 35 years. Now we have the opportunity to bring this format to the North West with a dedicated regional forum, connecting with industry professionals in our sector and sharing best practice. I encourage you to register for the inaugural North West Resources Forum—I look forward to seeing you there.”

Opportunities for Involvement

The NWRF is pleased to have the support of WRAP for the launch of the NWRF, establishing themselves as the first ‘Friends’ of the North West Resources Forum. Organisations can further engage with the North West Resources Forum through the ‘Friends of North West Resources Forum’ scheme, which offers three levels of sponsorship—Bronze, Silver, and Gold—providing benefits such as 48-hour priority booking and stand space at the Annual Conference.

The first North West Resources Forum meeting will be held on 29th April 2025, at the Renew Hub in Trafford Park, Manchester. Attendees can expect thought-provoking discussions, networking opportunities, and insights from leading industry speakers. Press are welcome to attend and cover the event.

For more information, join our mailing list, and to register for the inaugural event book a place via Eventbrite, or contact jo@genee.org.uk.