Scott Butler

Background

About Scott Butler

I set up and lead Material Focus, a not-for-profit dedicated to building a world where materials are never wasted. In 2020, we launched the UK's Recycle Your Electricals behaviour change campaign, pioneering innovative research on e-waste and making it easier for over ten million people across the UK to repair, donate and recycle their old electricals. Through funding and supporting new collection and drop-off points, we have transformed awareness of and access to responsible disposal. I was appointed to the Office for Environmental Protection's College of Experts in 2023. Before Material Focus, I established and managed the UK operations of the European Recycling Platform (ERP), delivering environmental compliance for electronics, batteries and packaging for hundreds of companies, including some of the world’s largest tech brands. I later led product and service innovation across Europe. Prior to that, I directed sustainability efforts at Samsung Electronics UK & Ireland, guiding the company through the introduction of the European and RoHS regulations. My sustainability career began at the Science Museum in London, where, as Associate Curator for Energy, I led groundbreaking sustainability projects - including installing a solar PV roof and founding the UK's first environmental forum for museums and galleries. This brought together institutions such as the South Kensington and National Museums, the Royal Parks, the Royal Albert Hall, and the Royal Geographical Society to work on environmental initiatives. A skilled public speaker, I regularly deliver keynotes, chair panels, and contribute to media discussions on the circular economy, sustainability and e-waste. I hold an MBA from Warwick Business School, an MSc in Environmental Technology from Imperial College London, and a BA in Geography and Management from the University of Leeds.