It is with sadness that the auto recycling industry witnessed the recent passing of Neil James. A long-time auto recycler in British Columbia as well as an industry leader and advocate, James passed away on May 8 at the age of 68.

A graduate from the University of British Columbia, James got involved in the family auto recycling business, Ralph’s Auto Supply and joined the British Columbia Auto Recyclers Association, serving as Chair from 1990 until 1995. 

He was a pioneer and early advocate for better sustainability and environmental responsibility in the auto recycling industry, and worked with various stakeholders, including the B.C. Ministry of the Environment, as well as the Ministry of Transportation and Highways and Environment Canada to achieve better standards for environmental responsibility and sustainability.  

James helped develop the Automotive Recyclers of Canada Environmental Code of Practice, which set new standards for stewardship including the handling of hazardous materials and was a leading advocate for a national association representing the interests of recyclers. He was a founding member of the national industry association, the Auto Recyclers of Canada (ARC), established in 1997 and actively served on the ARC board until 2020.

James is survived by his partner Natalie States, children Brendon, Sarah, Amanda, granddaughter Kennedy, and sisters Nancy, Patty, Arlene and their children and grandchildren.

Steve Fletcher, former Managing Director of ARC and industry ambassador, said, “[Neil James] was the actual catalyst for the various provincial associations to come together and form ARC as the national voice of the industry he loved.”