We usually speak with companies who have already decided to pursue getting R2 certification (Responsible Recycling) or renewing their certification.
But we know that making this decision often comes at a cost. R2 costs money and it costs time. But are the pro’s worth it?
We know it can be a big decision to make.
As one user recently posted on a scrap forum, “I may need to get the certification to maintain a particular client. The size and scope justifies the expense, but it appears to be a daunting task to undertake. Having just an R2 downstream may not be enough, hence the research into getting certified. The additional jobs it may generate is an added bonus.”
Sustainable Electronics Recycling International (SERI) is the housing body and ANSI-accredited Standards Development Organization for the R2 Standard, which means it is the organization directly responsible for its development and maintenance.
The development of the standard occurred through a transparent, balanced, consensus-based process. The standards development process took three years from start to finish. The multi-stakeholder group included representatives from the EPA, State government regulators, companies and associations in the electronics recycling industry, OEMs/customers and NGO’s.
The SERI website is full of resources and information, but one of the areas we wanted to highlight is something our customers struggle with: Is it worth it? We have listed some real quotes from real people online next to the benefits and stats that are listed on SERI’s website.
- Growing Demand- 95% of certified recyclers reported increased demand for responsible recycling.
“We partner only with R2 certified eWaste recyclers.”
“R2 Certified recyclers are the best way to go.”
- Decreasing Costs – 36% reported reduced insurance premiums due to better EH&S practices
“We have it… I like having it… I do believe it helps us become a better company.”
“Many leading companies are building long-term value from sustainability programs as a way to examine their use of resources, social impacts, and life cycle efficiency to reduce risk and cost.”
- Growing Sales – 70% of certified recyclers reported that certification had increased their business.
“I know some of our large clients require certifications. It all boils down to what are you as a company wanting to become. If you are going to go after the whale’s, you will need certifications.”
“R2 opens a lot of doors and shows your companies commitment to best practices. One of the best pieces of advice I can give is, document EVERYTHING and then document some more!”
We’ll close with this example of “Imitation is the Sincerest Form of Flattery”. If R2 wasn’t important, why would a company fake having the certification in an effort to win a contract. All we can say is Yikes! And we’re glad the issuer of the RFP realized they weren’t listed as an R2 holder.
Curious about R2 and what it can do for you? Join us for a free 60 minute educational webinar on June 28, 2018 at 2 PM (Eastern). We will cover R2 requirements and the R2 certification process. We hope to see you there!
