2024 Resource Hot 100 Local Authority Leader of the Year

Local authority officers play a pivotal role in the UK's journey towards sustainable waste management and a circular economy. These dedicated professionals are at the forefront of implementing national policies and local initiatives that directly impact how communities handle their waste. Recognising this crucial role, we are delighted to introduce the new category of Hot100 Local Authority Leader of the Year, sponsored by Alupro, to celebrate those who excel in this vital area of public service.

Jarno Stet, Waste & Recycling Manager for the City of Westminster, is our inaugural winner, leading the votes in this category for his outstanding contribution to municipal waste management. Stet's work exemplifies the sector's commitment to efficient, sustainable, and innovative waste management practices at the local level.

"Seeing the, often immediate, results of our work here is very satisfying," Stet explains. "Our sector supports the livelihood of the communities we serve and that takes many forms. Clean streets are happy streets even though many take our services for granted." This ethos is evident in his approach to tackling the industry's challenges, particularly through the use of new technologies and collaborative partnerships.

Stet emphasises the historical importance and ongoing relevance of local authorities in waste management: "The very reason local authorities came to be many years ago, was to manage waste and maintain public health. Local authorities continue to play a key role in keeping communities liveable but also ensuring that what is discarded is put to good use."

This vision aligns with the industry's current trajectory, where local authorities are at the forefront of implementing circular economy principles at the community level. From designing efficient collection systems to educating residents about proper recycling practices, local authority leaders like Stet are driving the sector towards more sustainable practices and greater resource efficiency.

Jarno Stet: Local Authority Leader

Stet's journey in waste management stretches back 20 years. What started as a short-term project-based role in 2003 has turned into a long-term career in the waste sector. As well as two decades working for the City of Westminster, next year will be his 10th year as Secretary of the National Association of Waste Disposal Officers (NAWDO).

"My role in waste management is very diverse and involves many different elements which keeps it interesting," Stet reflects. "Technology is a topic which really interests me as well as how this is changing the sector. The contact with colleagues at home and abroad also adds useful angles and insights to what we are doing."

This passion for tackling complex problems is evident in Stet's work on innovative solutions and partnerships in municipal waste management. He sees multiple opportunities for the sector's future: "We know we must keep innovating and rise to the challenges ahead of us. What stays the same is the responsibility to maintain public health in a sustainable and cost-effective way."

Reflecting on winning the Local Authority Leader of the Year award, Stet said: "To be honest, when I was entered into the Resource Hot 100, I did not consider winning anything. Of course, it is a great compliment and honour that someone nominated me in the first place, but I did not see this coming. At all. It is such a surprise. That so many people voted for me has touched me. It is a humbling and unique experience."

The introduction of the Local Authority Leader of the Year category to the Resource Hot 100 underscores the industry's recognition of the vital role these professionals play in shaping a more sustainable future. As the sector continues to evolve, leaders like Jarno Stet will be at the forefront, driving the changes necessary to realise truly sustainable waste management practices at the local level.

Amy Billingham, PR Manager for Alupro, Local Authority Leader of the Year category sponsor, commented: "Local authorities are on the front line of the UK's waste and recycling industry and an essential partner helping to deliver higher recycling rates. We are delighted to sponsor this brand-new Hot 100 category which helps to recognise those local authority colleagues who are doing an excellent job!"

Alupro's commitment to supporting local authorities extends beyond sponsorship. Through programmes like MetalMatters, Every Can Counts, and Foil in Love with Recycling, Alupro works closely with local authorities to boost public awareness and participation in aluminium recycling. These initiatives play a crucial role in helping communities increase their recycling rates and contribute to a more sustainable future, exemplifying the kind of partnerships that leaders like Stet foster to drive progress in the sector.