THE founder of a leading East Lancashire business has been announced as one of the top 10 global recycling heroes.

Nick Oettinger, the founder and managing director of Blackburn-based The Furniture Recycling Group (TFR Group), has been recognised as a #RecyclingHero by The Global Recycling Foundation (GBF) for his dedication to tackling the UK mattress recycling problem

The accolade also acknowledges the firm’s extensive research and programme, aimed at making the mattress recycling process much more viable and efficient.

Mr Oettinger received a $1,000 prize for his commitment and innovation in recycling, which will go towards funding further research and development.

Mr Oettinger said: “It’s an absolute honour to have been recognised as one of the world’s ‘recycling heroes’. My strategy has always been to take the opportunities that are worth the risk. We’re exceptionally fortunate to have an amazing team of hard-working staff that drive TFR Group and its initiatives forward.This has enabled TFR Group to go from strength to strength since launching more than eight years ago.”

The GBF made the announcement to coincide with global recycling day, which was created in 2018 to recognise and celebrate the innovators and inspiring businesses around the world and the importance recycling plays in securing the future of earth.

TFR Group was launched in 2012 to tackle the UK’s mattress recycling problem and raise awareness of the importance of a circular economy. The firm currently diverts 400,000 mattresses, and more than one million duvets and pillows away from landfill each year. It has also recycled more than 1.5 million mattresses since launching, the equivalent of 330 Olympic-size swimming pools.

For more information visit www.tfrgroup.co.uk.