Dive Brief:

• Call2Recycle announced that as it celebrates 20 years of service, the organization diverted 100 million pounds of batteries since it began in 1994.
• The stewardship program collects used batteries and cell phones throughout the country; it then works to recycle the materials, while separating the hazardous substances from the resources.
• The organization said the success of the program relied upon the cultivation of partnerships with battery and product manufacturers, communities and retailers. It cited that its network connections spread consumer awareness, which helped Call2Recycle attain its goals. 

Dive Insight:

Call2Recycle also said the 34,000 locations found across the U.S. that are used to collect the materials readily contributed to the substantial volume of batteries and phones discarded at the centers. The organization states that there are drop-off sites within 10 miles of 89% of consumers living in the U.S.

The organization received certification on behalf of the Responsible Recycling Practices Standard (R2). The R2 standard is administered through Sustainable Electronics Recycling International (SERI). The standard is used to ensure responsible practices are in place and adhered to by electronics recyclers.