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R2-Zertifizierung
In brief
R2 certification (Responsible Recycling) is a standard for companies that refurbish, repair, sell or recycle used electronics. It is published by the US organization SERI (Sustainable Electronics Recycling International); the current version is called R2v3. Among other things, it requires a management system, the tracking of all devices and materials and a data security plan.
Structure of R2v3
R2v3 consists of core requirements that apply to every certified site and appendices that are added depending on the activity.
| Part | Examples of content |
|---|---|
| Core requirements (Core) | Environmental, health and safety management, compliance with laws, quantity tracking, data security, handling of critical substances, transport |
| Appendix A | Downstream recycling chain |
| Appendix B | Data erasure (logical) and extended physical destruction |
| Appendix C | Testing and repair |
| Further appendices | Including material recovery and trading (brokering) |
The hierarchy is central: reuse takes precedence over material recovery, and data carriers must be sanitized before any transfer.
Context for companies in Germany
R2 is widespread mainly in North America and is sometimes required worldwide by international corporations. In Germany, the selection of service providers usually relies on statutory proof such as certification as a certified waste management company, as well as ISO standards. Second IT demonstrates its processes with ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, ISO/IEC 27001, DIN 66399 (H-5) and as a certified waste management company; erasure is performed with Blancco. Which questions you should ask providers is shown in the guide Choosing an ITAD provider. A similar approach is followed by e-Stewards.
Frequently asked questions about R2 certification
What does R2v3 mean?
R2v3 is the third version of the Responsible Recycling standard. It replaced the previous version and is built modularly by activity.
Does R2 also regulate data erasure?
Yes. Every site needs a data security plan. Anyone who erases data using software must additionally meet the requirements of Appendix B.
Is R2 mandatory in the EU?
No. R2 is a voluntary standard. In Germany, the requirements under data protection, waste and electrical equipment law are binding.
Who is behind R2 certification?
The standard is published by the US organization SERI (Sustainable Electronics Recycling International). It is aimed at companies that refurbish, repair, sell or recycle used electronics. The current version is called R2v3.
What is the difference between R2 and e-Stewards?
Both standards pursue a similar approach to the responsible handling of old electronic devices. R2 comes from SERI; e-Stewards is a standard of its own. In Germany, the selection of service providers usually relies on statutory proof and ISO standards.
Reuse before recycling – with certified erasure.
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