About Us
ORA - UK Trade Association To The Recycling Industry
The UK Trade Association to the Waste Recycling Industry. The Oil Recycling Association (ORA) promotes, protects and assists the interests of its members within the hazardous waste industry.
Members operate in the recovery / recycling of hazardous and difficult non-hazardous wastes. This includes wastes arising from the servicing of automotive engines and other mechanical equipment. In addition to this wastes arising from contaminated fuels, spillages, ships slops, tank bottoms, together with water contaminated with oil. Members may also operate in the collection and/or recovery / recycling of waste plastics.
As a result the recovery and recycling of a variety wastes such as oil, oil filters, catalysts, batteries, plastics and other difficult waste products are a major part of our Full Members' interests.
Our Strengths in Recycling & Recovery
Since 1998, the Oil Recycling Association (ORA) has been the trusted UK trade body representing companies in the hazardous and difficult non-hazardous waste recycling sector. We promote, protect, and advance the interests of our members while acting as a strong voice within the industry, connecting waste producers, regulators, and recycling companies.
Expertise in Waste Recycling
Our members specialize in recycling a wide range of wastes'oils, filters, catalysts, batteries, plastics, contaminated fuels, ship slops, and more'turning hazardous materials into valuable End-of-Waste products while supporting the Circular Economy.
Comprehensive Member Support
Our Associate Members provide consultancy, insurance, legal, transport, and logistics support, helping businesses navigate complex regulations and maintain high recycling standards.
5500k+ Ltr
Volume Processed
3500k+ Ltr
Waste Oil Recycled
Meet Our Amazing Team Of Waste Oil Industries
Mr. Barrie Thomas
Executive DirectorMr. Barrie Thomas
Executive Director
Mr. Vin Vernon
Chairman
Mr. Chris Williamson
Vice Chairman
ORA Mission
ORA promotes the sustainable management, reuse, and recycling of hazardous and difficult wastes, especially used mineral oils, while ensuring environmental and human health protection.
ORA Vision
We aim for a society where waste is minimized, and unavoidable waste is treated as a valuable resource, supporting a sustainable, resource-led economy.
Commitment to Excellence
ORA is dedicated to guiding its members in implementing responsible waste management practices that align with European and UK regulations, including the Waste Framework Directive. By encouraging high standards in recycling and energy recovery, we ensure that post-use mineral oils and other hazardous wastes are treated efficiently and safely, transforming them into valuable resources while minimizing environmental impact and safeguarding human health.
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ORA Goals
We focus on reusing and recycling waste oils and hazardous materials, supporting safe energy recovery when needed, ensuring regulatory compliance, and maximizing resource efficiency.
Let's See Our Company History
- 2005
First meeting to setup an Oil Recycling Associations
UK oil recycling companies met for the first time to discuss reforms and form a collaborative community to strengthen the sector.
- 2009
Establishing the Oil Recycling Association
The Oil Recycling Association was established with defined governance and membership, creating a unified voice for the UK oil recycling sector.
- 2018
Mutual Support and Collaboration Through the Association
Members actively used the Association to share knowledge, solve challenges, and collaborate across the UK oil recycling sector.
- 2025
Reshaping the Landscape of Oil Recycling Associations
The Association enters a transformative phase, advancing innovation and collaboration to meet future regulatory and sustainability needs.