RIOS and R2 form alliance to support responsible recycling, reuse and repair of electronics and scrap

The Recycling Industry Operating Standard (RIOS), which is managed by the Global Recycling Standards Organization (GRSO), has formed an alliance with the R2 Certification program, developed by Sustainable Electronic Recycling International (SERI).

This alliance will allow the organizations to work closely together to improve training and education programs, streamline the certification process for companies seeking both R2 and RIOS certification, lower the overall cost of certification, and support the responsible recycling, reuse, and repair of electronics and electronic scrap.

As part of this alliance, all companies that are pursuing or are currently certified to R2 will receive the Association Alliance membership rate, which is 50 percent of the normal membership rate. This membership will include the RIOS Implementation Guide, access to all RIOS training programs, as well as all of the other membership benefits of RIOS. 

Additionally, GRSO and SERI will collaborate to develop QEHS management system training that is specific to those company seeking R2 certification. The RIOS standard will also now be publically available for free to anyone, regardless of their R2 affiliation.  Finally, RIOS and R2 staff and leadership will collaborate to find ways to streamline the audit experience for companies seeking R2 and RIOS certification.

 "Every electronics recycling standard is built on a strong quality, environmental, health and safety management system. RIOS is the only management system standard designed specifically for recyclers. I see great opportunities for R2 Certified recyclers when R2 and RIOS work together to support recyclers in achieving the management system requirements of R2," stated Corey Dehmey, SERI's Executive Director.