BIR Non-Ferrous Metals Division recognizes Non-Ferrous Legend

The Brussels-based Bureau of International Recycling (BIR) Non-Ferrous Metals Division has named Marc Natan its first-ever Non-Ferrous Legend.

Introduced as an “award to recognise greatness,” the Non-Ferrous Legend award is intended for inspiring figures who have long served the industry and have been high achievers in leadership roles and in advocating on behalf of their fellow recyclers, according to BIR Non-Ferrous Metals Division President Paul Coyte of New Zealand-based Hayes Metals, who addressed the divisional meeting May 27 in Valencia, Spain, as part of the BIR World Recycling Convention & Exhibition.

In his 51 years of service to the industry, Natan has been an active participant in nearly every BIR committee and spent six years (2001 to 2007) as president of the Non-Ferrous Metals Division. During this period, his initiatives included launching the first-ever “Non-Ferrous Metals World Mirror” publication as a regular information tool for members. He was named Honorary Non-Ferrous Metals Division president for life and is an active BIR ambassador for his native Algeria and French-speaking North African countries.

Outside of these BIR activities, Natan ran the second-largest nonferrous metals trading company in France and was director of the largest secondary copper smelter in Europe. Despite these duties and Natan’s BIR involvement, Coyte said, "he also had the time to inspire and mentor people.”

Receiving the award to a standing and sustained ovation, Natan said, “This is a tremendous distinction. I am delighted and very moved by this recognition.” He went on to thank “everyone who had the excellent taste to select me.”

Natan spoke about the experience he gained as a director of the Metallo Group and mentioned some of the people he came to know and admire during more than five decades in the business. He also thanked his wife and family for their support.

“BIR is my home,” Natan said, urging people to come forward and take leadership roles to defend the recycling industry’s shared objectives in the face of many threats and challenges. “Recycling is more crucial than ever. Nevertheless, our recycled products are under pressure. They are considered strategic, critical or even hazardous materials. Some governments and consumer associations are stepping up efforts to regulate their international trade. So, please continue to work together to build a more sustainable world.”