User:Manhei.chiu/E-Stewards

The e-Stewards programs are initiatives of the Basel Action Network (BAN), a non-profit watchdog organization that works to prevent trade of hazardous waste from rich to poor countries in accordance with the international Basel Treaty and the Basel Ban Amendment. The e-Stewards qualification program for recyclers began with a group of recyclers committing to the Electronics Recyclers Pledge of True Stewardship and undergoing a independent audit.

In 2009, BAN released the e-Stewards Standard for Responsible Recycling and Reuse of Electronic Equipment which set forth requirements for becoming a Certified e-Stewards Recycler. Recyclers that have been qualified under the Pledge program have until September 1, 2011 to get certified to the Standard by an e-Stewards Accredited Certification Body (accredited by the American National Standards Institute - ANSI). The certification is available to all electronics recyclers.

e-Stewards Standard
The e-Stewards Standard for Responsible Recycling and Reuse of Electronic Equipment was developed by the Basel Action Network. It is an industry-specific environmental management system standard that is the basis a and electronics recycling company to become a Certified e-Stewards recycler.

The e-Stewards Standard is written for international use, and is consistent with international waste trade rules, social accountability standards, and environmental management system norms. Embedded within the e-Stewards Standard is ISO 14001, which is the global standard for environmental management systems. Using the ISO 14001 standard as a framework, the e-Stewards Standard adds additional industry-specific performance requirements, which results in a systemic, documented and top management commitment to best management practices for electronics recycling and reuse.

e-Stewards Recyclers
Electronics recyclers that have demonstrated to independent auditors that they follow strict practices for responsible electronics recycling are e-Stewards Recyclers. They must demonstrate comprehensive environmental, health and safety practices as well as robust measures to secure data that is often found on electronic devices.

e-Stewards Enterprise
A program of the Basel Action Network (BAN), businesses, governments and other organizations wishing to demonstrate responsible electronics recycling practices to stakeholders can become e-Stewards Enterprises. In order to do so, they must always make best efforts to use e-Stewards recyclers. They must report annually to BAN on their recycling vendor practices and sign a licensing agreement to use the e-Stewards Enterprise logo and designation.