Flex IT, a prominent European player in IT Lifecycle Management, has earned the R2V3 certification, marking it as the first Dutch company to achieve this globally recognized standard. The R2 certification emphasizes responsible reuse and recycling of IT hardware, components, and materials, reflecting Flex IT’s dedication to fostering a circular economy and minimizing e-waste through sustainable IT Asset Disposition (ITAD) services. R2 certification is increasingly viewed as essential for companies aiming to engage with the U.S. circular economy and is gradually being adopted by non-U.S. organizations. Previously, we covered Turkish-based Remalab Teknoloji, likely the only European repair center holding this prestigious certification.
What is R2 Certification?
The Responsible Recycling (R2) standard is a globally recognized benchmark for handling end-of-life electronics responsibly. It emphasizes equipment reuse, waste reduction, and adherence to strict environmental regulations. R2-certified organizations extend the lifecycle of IT hardware and promote the reuse of components and materials. The certification aligns with European regulations like the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and contributes to improving ESG scores.
Flex IT’s ITAD Services: security and sustainability
Flex IT’s R2 certification, awarded by Sustainable Electronics Recycling International (SERI), specifically applies to its ITAD processes. These services include:
- Reusing IT equipment such as laptops, desktops, and servers.
- Recycling parts and harvesting materials for new applications.
- Data security, ensuring sensitive data is securely erased.
- Sustainable processing, extending device lifespans up to ten years, compared to the current average of three to five years.
Andreas Mayer, CEO of Flex IT, stated, “We are proud to be the first Dutch company to receive this important certification. Every link in our supply chain, from manufacturing to recycling, has been rigorously audited. This allows us to offer complete transparency about what happens to IT devices at the end of their lifecycle, with the goal of extending their lifespan as much as possible.”
Driving broader impact
The R2 certification goes beyond recycling, covering the entire value chain from usage to end-of-life. The standard sets strict requirements for environmental practices, safety, and data management, and mandates thorough evaluations of all supply chain partners. Flex IT aims to lead the way in circular IT and inspire other companies to invest in sustainability, quality, and safety within ITAD processes. “We encourage other industry players to seek certification,” said Jan Willem Proper, Manager ITAD & Circular IT at Flex IT. “Responsible management of IT devices is crucial for a sustainable future, and collaboration across the supply chain is the only way forward.”
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