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LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD IN THE TYRE RECYCLING SECTOR
RECIRCLE AWARDS 2021
Dr Valerie Shulman
Dr Valerie Shulman, who sadly passed away in July following a battle with cancer, had been involved in recycling for somewhat longer than
she held her role as Secretary General of ETRA, and in her lifetime in the sector Dr Shulman campaigned to raise awareness of tyre recycling with
governments across Europe, and of course with the European Commission.
Dr Shulman, literally, wrote the book on tyre recycling, coining many of the phrases and terminology in common use today.
A larger-than-life character, Dr Shulman was passionate about recycling like no other individual. This passion could be seen in her involvement in the ETRA conferences and seminars each year. An impressive lady who knew
where she wanted to see the industry develop.
Ewan Scott, editor of Tyre and Rubber Recycling, was first introduced to the
whirlwind of enthusiasm of Dr Shulman at an ETRA conference in Cambridge, some 20 years ago. He said; “Valerie Shulman sparked my interest in tyre
recycling. Her presentation initiated what was to become a change in direction for me from a somewhat disinterested tyre industry hack to an observer and
commentator with a real desire for my own work to make what difference I could in the tyre recycling world.”
Peter Taylor of the TRA attributed the position of the tyre recycling sector in Europe to the efforts of Dr Shulman and her work at ETRA to ensure that the sector
was never forgotten either by the tyre industry or by the European Commission.
Dr Shulman, when asked how she felt about her award, said; “Surprised, shocked and flattered,” continuing to thank those who had supported her over the years. She was a
worthy winner of the inaugural “Lifetime Achievement Award in the Tyre Recycling Sector” and will be sadly missed by the whole industry.
“As we move from an energy producing sector to one that provides valuable raw materials for new products and applications, I think that it shows how well small and medium sized businesses work together.”
– Dr Valerie Shulman
XXXIV
Recircle Awards 2021