The Responsible Recycling (R2) Certification follows the Responsible Recycling (R2) Standard, which is a set of guidelines and procedures for recycling and reclamation facilities for processing electronic trash. The R2 Certification begins with an initial assessment of compliance with the R2 Standard. Accredited certification organizations conduct a readiness review and registration audit. A follow-up is conducted prior to certification and remedial action is taken if needed. There are annual audits and re-registration every three years to maintain R2 Certification.
Who Started the R2 Certification?
The R2 Certification was created by Sustainable Electronics Recycling International (SERI). SERI is the housing body for R2 Certification and is recognized by ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) in the United States. Regulators from state agencies, electronics recyclers, customers of electronic recycling, NGOs, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) all contributed to the formulation of the R2 standard. The international R2 Certification was established in 2008, and as of 2020, the R2 Standard is being examined for an upgraded version.
What Makes a Company R2 Certified?
Companies that have R2 Certification are in compliance with the following R2 Standard practices.
- Observes recycling and reusing of e-waste. Disposing of e-waste is the company’s last resort.
- Protects employees and the environment through adherence to occupational health and safety standards, regular hazard identification, and risk assessment.
- Monitors the presence of harmful substances during the recycling process.
- Documents the focus material handling plan for both recyclers and downstream sellers.
- Provides legal proof of export capacity and awareness of where these exports are sent including their proper handling.
- Implements a comprehensive management system that complies with the “Plan-Do-Check-Act” model.
- Adheres to all legal and regulatory requirements and rules of the governing body of the standard.
TechWaste Recycling has attained R2 Certification and is focused on providing businesses with responsible electronics recycling.
Why is R2 Certification Important?
Companies and organizations with R2 Certification benefit our health and environment in the following ways.
- Lessening the detrimental effects of improper recycling on human health and the environment.
- Increasing our accessibility to high-grade recycled and reusable products.
- Enhancing energy conservation, decreasing the negative impacts of mining, consumption of virgin materials, and maximizing natural resources.
