Step-by-Step Guide to achieve RECYCLE credit 1.1 and 1.2 for TRUE Certification

Achieving the RECYCLE credit 1.1 and 1.2 under TRUE certification can be a challenging task for organizations. However, it is crucial to ensure that the highest and best use of materials is explored prior to recycling to reduce waste and minimize environmental impact. In this article, we will discuss the steps organizations can take to achieve the credits under RECYCLE for TRUE certification.

RECYCLE CREDIT 1.1: MEET HIGHEST AND BEST USE FOR 80% OF MATERIALS BY WEIGHT

The intent of this credit is to ensure that organizations identify the highest and best use of materials generated at their facility before recycling. Here are the steps organizations can take to achieve this credit:

Step 1: Identify Materials Generated at the Facility Organizations should identify the categories of materials generated at their facility, as listed in the 12 Master Categories/Discards. This step will help them understand the types and quantities of waste generated. Below are the 12 Master Categories:

Step 2: Identify Highest and Best Use Once organizations have identified the categories of materials generated at their facility, they should evaluate the highest and best use for each material. The highest and best use is evaluated according to the hierarchy provided by ZWIA (Zero Waste International Alliance).

Step 3: Demonstrate 80% Compliance Organizations should demonstrate that 80% of materials, by weight, are meeting the highest and best use. If 80% of all materials generated by weight consists of one material only, the next three largest waste streams by weight must also meet the highest and best use.

Step 4: Increase Awareness Organizations can increase awareness and engage employees creatively to identify opportunities to reduce, reuse, and upcycle materials prior to recycling. Contests or other initiatives can be used to encourage employees to come up with innovative ideas to reduce waste.

Step 5: Submit Documentation Organizations should submit a narrative describing which categories are applicable to their facility, and for each of those categories, a narrative describing how they meet the highest and best use. They should also submit calculations showing that 80% of materials at their facility, by weight, are following the highest and best use.

RECYCLE CREDIT 1.2: MEET HIGHEST AND BEST USE FOR 100% OF MATERIALS

The intent of this credit is the same as credit 1.1, but the requirement is that organizations must identify the highest and best use for all materials generated at their facility and demonstrate that 100% of materials, by weight, are meeting the highest and best use.

The potential strategies and steps for achieving credit 1.2 are the same as those for credit 1.1, except that organizations must achieve 100% compliance instead of 80%.

Achieving the credits under RECYCLE for TRUE certification requires organizations to identify the highest and best use for materials generated at their facility before recycling. Organizations can achieve this by following the steps outlined above, including identifying materials generated at the facility, identifying the highest and best use, demonstrating compliance, increasing awareness, and submitting documentation. By achieving these credits, organizations can reduce waste, minimize their environmental impact, and contribute to a sustainable future.