A Mentoring Program
To create a more equitable recycling network, a mentoring initiative is being organized by those responsible for the R2 standards. Through this program, smaller businesses will be provided with guidance on how to become certified.
Facilities seeking to become R2-certified can now take advantage of SERI’s R2 Mentors program and “R2U” training. Both will equip these facilities with tools needed to successfully move through each step of certification. For example, by breaking down components into individual pieces, “R2U” provides a chance to focus on particular skills in order to achieve certification. Additionally, SERI offers recorded classes that can be used as a learning aid throughout this process.
SERI’s head of communications, Jeff Seibert, revealed that the organization had received multiple requests from companies for a simplified version of the R2 standard. But, due to its basis in established best practices, no suitable solution was available. That was when R2U was created. “Instead of watering it down, let’s help them over this big gap,” he explained.
“You’re not asking them to make this huge leap all in one chunk,” he continued, reiterating that the classes can be taken in stages at the facilities own speed.
Challenges Associated with the New R2V3 Standard
June marked a significant milestone for many industries as 1,000 facilities successfully met the transition deadline to upgrade from an older version of the standard and gain certification towards a more rigorous R2V3 standard.
Corey Dehmey, the executive director of SERI, highlighted that the new initiatives could assist in eliminating certification obstacles. Furthermore, he noted that an increase in licensed sites may benefit already certified centers who are searching for partners.
“It’s a better supply chain for them and helps them identify and do due diligence on partners and helps get their partners up to the same level of care,” he stated.
At the moment, SERI is in the preliminary stages, assessing various software technologies and establishing a budget. Dehmey reported that presently there are roughly 27 topics and course ideas identified.
A Larger Scope
According to Dehmey, SERI has articulated a bold vision: “A world where you can find responsible reuse and recycling everywhere for electronics.”
It is essential to recognize that not everyone is in the same situation, Dehmey noted. He added that that this understanding is crucial for all to reach the same outcome.
“We’re trying to meet people where they’re at and help them build toward hopefully, eventually, an R2 certification,” he said.
SERI has taken several initiatives in its journey, by launching both the mentors program and R2U program. To further reach more auditors around globe, SERI has also chosen to digitize its R2 auditor training program into an online course.
“We’ve really been expanding the auditor base more globally into areas where we previously didn’t have auditors,” Dehmey said. “Having local auditors reduces travel costs.”
SERI is also working towards establishing additional certification bodies in India to reduce certification costs. Additionally, the firm hopes to create a tiered licensing fee system that considers the differences in purchasing power between various countries.
