As the problems associated with the relatively new electronics waste stream come to light, various programs are emerging to help customers, recyclers, governments and others navigate the complex and sometimes shady recycling industry. The challenge is to understand the differences between the various programs so you can make an informed choice. With so much at stake – legal liability, brand name, and long term and devastating impacts on health, water and air – it’s critical to recognize the differences.
As more programs emerge, the Basel Action Network will provide more side-by-side comparisons.
e-Stewards and R2 certification programs compared
In the United States, from 2006 – 2008, the EPA facilitated a multi-stakeholder process to attempt to define responsible recycling (“R2”). When it was clear this process would result in the violation of laws in many countries, particularly developing nations, and would not adequately address the toxic constituents in e-waste, participants from the environmental community left the process and started the e-Stewards certification program.
Following is a brief comparison of e-Stewards and R2:
For more details about the differences between R2 and e-Stewards see these documents:
e-Stewards compared to other standards
As the problems associated with the relatively new electronics waste stream come to light, various programs are emerging to help customers, recyclers, governments and others navigate the complex and sometimes shady recycling industry. The challenge is to understand the differences between the various programs so you can make an informed choice. With so much at stake – legal liability, brand name, and long term and devastating impacts on health, water and air – it’s critical to recognize the differences.
As more programs emerge, the Basel Action Network will provide more side-by-side comparisons.
e-Stewards and R2 certification programs compared
In the United States, from 2006 – 2008, the EPA facilitated a multi-stakeholder process to attempt to define responsible recycling (“R2”). When it was clear this process would result in the violation of laws in many countries, particularly developing nations, and would not adequately address the toxic constituents in e-waste, participants from the environmental community left the process and started the e-Stewards certification program.
Following is a brief comparison of e-Stewards and R2:
For more details about the differences between R2 and e-Stewards see these documents: