Skip to content 
e-Stewards
In brief
e-Stewards is a certification standard for the responsible recycling and reuse of electronics, developed by the US environmental organization Basel Action Network (BAN) together with recycling companies. Among other things, it prohibits the export of hazardous e-waste fractions to developing countries and requires an environmental management system. It appears in tenders from international companies alongside other ITAD certifications.
What does the e-Stewards standard require?
- No export of hazardous waste to developing countries within the meaning of the Basel Convention, not even via intermediaries
- No landfilling or incineration of hazardous electronic components
- Control of the downstream chain: The path of all hazardous fractions to final recovery must be known
- Environmental management system according to ISO 14001 as well as occupational health and safety
- Data security: Requirements for the erasure or destruction of data carriers
- Social criteria, such as the ban on prison labor in dismantling
Certification is carried out by accredited certification bodies with annual surveillance audits.
Context for companies in Germany
e-Stewards is mainly widespread in North America. In Germany and the EU, the selection of service providers is usually based on statutory evidence such as certification as a certified waste management company and on management system standards. Comparable standards are R2 certification and for the data protection part ADISA. Second IT demonstrates its processes with ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, ISO/IEC 27001, DIN 66399 (H-5) and certification as a certified waste management company. What to look for when selecting is shown in our guide Choosing an ITAD provider.
Frequently asked questions about e-Stewards
Who is behind e-Stewards?
The standard was developed by the Basel Action Network, a non-profit organization from the USA that campaigns against the export of toxic waste.
What is the difference from R2?
Both standards certify electronics recyclers and refurbishers. e-Stewards places particular emphasis on a strict ban on exporting hazardous waste, while R2 is structured modularly by activities.
Do I need an e-Stewards-certified service provider?
Not by law. The requirements of your company or group are decisive. What matters is traceable evidence of data erasure, whereabouts and disposal.
Do you need e-Stewards in Germany?
Not necessarily. The standard is mainly widespread in North America. In Germany and the EU, the selection of service providers is usually based on statutory evidence such as certification as a certified waste management company and on management system standards.
How is a company certified under e-Stewards?
Certification is carried out by accredited certification bodies. They then re-examine the company in annual surveillance audits. Among other things, an environmental management system under ISO 14001 and data security requirements are required.
Audited processes, traceable evidence.
Send us your device list. You will receive your offer in 48 hours on average.