Developing a Comprehensive Global Electronics Recycling Strategy
As more companies operate globally, developing compliant and integrated programs for managing end-of-life electronics, presents many challenges:
- Adherence to corporate compliance programs, particularly in less developed regions of the world
- Developing and managing a program that is deployed across countries operating to different regulatory requirements
- Finding certified electronics recycling partners that can support international needs of global companies
- Ensuring all digital data is destroyed
- Providing audit trail for data destruction and responsible recycling of retired electronics
- Hazardous materials are properly identified, isolated, and disposed
The Importance of Certification Programs for Electronics Recyclers
Given the lack of regulations governing the management of used and end-of-life electronics in many countries, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, as well as other national environmental ministries and international bodies, encourage all electronics recyclers to become certified by demonstrating to an accredited, independent third-party auditor that they meet specific standards to safely recycle and manage electronics. Certified electronics recyclers are held to a high standard as they must continuously demonstrate through audits and other means, that they meet specific high environmental standards and safely manage used electronics.
- Responsible Recycling Practices (R2)
- e-Stewards
- ISO 14001
- OHSAS 18001
- ISO 9001
- ISO 27001
- TAPA
- NAID
International Associations Promoting Responsible Electronics Recycling
There are a number of international initiatives geared towards addressing the human health and environmental issues posed by the unsafe management of used and end-of-life electronics and electrical equipment.
Sims is actively involved in these international initiatives and networks, promoting responsible electronics recycling worldwide.