Electronics recycling standards compared

Electronics Recycling Standards Compared: R2 and e-Stewards®

Only the e-Stewards standard prohibits export of hazardous e-waste to developing nations.

Why the environmental groups support e-Stewards and not R2
There are now two voluntary certification programs based on performance standards for electronics recyclers: The R2 Guidelines and the e-Stewards Standard. How do they compare? When you look at how the two standards address the four worst problems plaguing the e-waste recycling industry – particularly the problem with exporting e-waste to developing countries - it is clear that the e-Stewards Standard sets a much higher bar for this industry that is plagued by “fake recyclers” and exporting. This chart explains why.

plaguing the recycling industry

The 4 worst problems

R2

e-Stewards

Problem 1: EXPORTING E-WASTE TO DEVELOPING COUNTRIES
The U.S. exports most of its toxic e-waste to developing nations, where it causes great harm. This is the single biggest problem plaguing this industry, and U.S. laws don’t prevent it. Does the standard prohibit recyclers from exporting ewaste to developing countries for RECYCLING? Does the standard prohibit recyclers from exporting nonworking hazardous equipment or parts to developing countries for REPAIRS? No, exports are allowed. Yes. The e-Stewards Standard prohibits these exports.

No. In fact, this is one of the biggest loopholes in R2. An R2 certified exporter may send non-working hazardous equipment from the U.S. to an R2 certified company in a developing nation. The R2 export language will not

Yes. Only working equipment, which has been tested and is fully functional may be exported to developing nations. If it doesn’t work, or hasn’t been tested, it can’t be exported if it contains hazardous components.

Electronics TakeBack Coalition www.electronicstakeback.com April 12, 2010

plaguing the recycling industry

The 4 worst problems

R2 prevent this even though the import of this