“Unlocking the TRUE Certification: 10 Common Questions and Answers for TRUE Advisor
- Q: What is the TRUE certification program, and who is it intended for? A: The TRUE certification program is a voluntary, third-party certification program for facilities and operations that have achieved high levels of sustainability and zero waste. It is intended for businesses, institutions, and communities seeking to improve their environmental performance and reduce waste.
- Q: What are the benefits of TRUE certification for businesses and organizations? A: The benefits of TRUE certification for businesses and organizations include improved environmental performance, reduced waste and costs, increased efficiency, and recognition and credibility for their sustainability efforts.
- Q: What are the requirements for becoming a TRUE Advisor, and what is the role of a TRUE Advisor? A: The requirements for becoming a TRUE Advisor include completing the TRUE Advisor course, passing the TRUE Advisor exam, and maintaining annual continuing education credits. A TRUE Advisor serves as a consultant and expert for clients seeking to achieve TRUE certification.
- Q: What is the difference between a TRUE Advisor and a TRUE Zero Waste Professional? A: A TRUE Advisor is certified to provide consulting services and advice on achieving TRUE certification, while a TRUE Zero Waste Professional is certified to lead and manage the certification process for a facility or operation.
- Q: What are the eligibility criteria for TRUE certification, and what is the certification process? A: To be eligible for TRUE certification, a facility or operation must meet certain waste diversion requirements and demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and zero waste. The certification process includes a documentation review, on-site verification, and assessment of waste reduction and diversion efforts.
- Q: How is waste diversion calculated for the purposes of TRUE certification? A: Waste diversion is calculated by dividing the total amount of waste diverted from the landfill by the total amount of waste generated. Waste diversion can include recycling, composting, and other diversion methods.
- Q: How long does TRUE certification last, and how often must facilities recertify? A: TRUE certification is valid for three years, after which facilities must recertify to maintain their certification status. Recertification involves a documentation review and on-site verification to ensure continued compliance with the certification requirements.
- Q: What is the role of verification in the TRUE certification process? A: Verification is a critical component of the TRUE certification process, as it ensures that facilities and operations are accurately reporting their waste diversion efforts and complying with the certification requirements.
- Q: How can businesses and organizations leverage TRUE certification to promote their sustainability efforts? A: Businesses and organizations can leverage TRUE certification to promote their sustainability efforts by highlighting their waste reduction and diversion achievements, demonstrating their commitment to sustainability, and attracting customers and partners who value environmental stewardship.
- Q: How does TRUE certification align with other sustainability frameworks and initiatives, such as LEED and the Sustainable Development Goals? A: TRUE certification aligns with other sustainability frameworks and initiatives by promoting waste reduction, resource conservation, and environmental stewardship, which are key components of sustainable development and responsible business practices.