Seeking an electronics recycling partner that is provably safe and sustainable? The R2v3 certification is one hallmark of ethical recycling practices.

R2v3 is the most recent version of the Responsible Use and Recycling (R2) Standard, a certification focused on the environmental and social impacts of electronic refurbishing and recycling. R2 certifications are issued by Sustainable Electronics Recycling International (SERI), an international nonprofit dedicated to the safety and sustainability of electronic devices. 

Released in 2020, the third version (R2v3) includes updates to the policy that reflect “changes in the electronics landscape, customer demands, and the regulatory environment” since the R2 standard was introduced a decade ago. 

Getting R2v3 Certification

R2v3 is highly respected because achieving this certification is a multi-step process. Before applying, an organization must already have approval under the Environmental Health and Safety system. The application process involves audits of their facility and practices to see if they comply with SERI standards. 

There are ten areas of focus for R2 certification, including the scope, strategy, transportation, data security practices, and worker safety of the applicant’s operations. If a company meets all of the certification requirements of these audits (or completes the necessary changes to pass another round), a fee is paid to cover the cost of the certification process, and a final inspection is conducted. 

Why Is R2v3 Certification Important? 

There are several reasons why a responsible electronics recycler should aspire to R2v3 certification. Not only does this accolade display a company’s ethical practices to partners and customers, but R2v3 also comes with industry advantages, like the ability to take part in certain R2-exclusive opportunities and events.

Moreover, there are two general areas in which following the R2v3 certification process can benefit both a recycling company and its clients.

Environmental Impact

Having R2-certified facilities can play a big part in the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategies of recyclers and their customers. In order to meet the requirements laid out by SERI, electronics recyclers must operate in a safe, efficient, and environmentally-conscious way. While it is possible to achieve greener operations without going through the R2v3 process, the guidelines provided by the standard provide a clear framework for making this happen. 

Data Security

Contrary to what you may assume, the information you delete from your old computers and drives is often far from safe. Proper data destruction or sanitization is an essential aspect of your company’s cybersecurity policy. Because safety and security are core aspects of R2v3, ensuring that you choose a recycling partner in compliance with this standard also protects your sensitive data from being accessed during or after the ITAD process. 

First America Metal Corporation 

First America Metal Corporation (FAMCe) is an R2v3-certified leader in ITAD, electronic recycling, and data destruction services, offering a wide range of IT disposal solutions designed to meet our clients’ unique needs in a safe and eco-friendly manner.

We specialize in secure, innovative electronics recycling services for businesses that need to safely dispose of electronic scrap, high-temperature alloys, and non-ferrous scrap. Our level of expertise, unparalleled customer service, and aggressive pricing make First America the leading option for almost any recycling need.
Need your company’s electronics safely and sustainably decommissioned? Learn more and get in touch with us at firstamerica.com.