E-waste is growing faster than ever, and the way we manage retired electronics has a direct impact on our planet. At Hummingbird International, we’ve always believed that responsible recycling should be the rule and not the exception. And today, we’re proud to share a milestone that brings us even closer to that vision.

Hummingbird International is now officially R2v3 certified. This certification reflects a lot more than compliance. It shows our commitment to safe recycling and secure data handling. Every device that enters our facility is processed with care, transparency, and full accountability.

For organizations that are looking to strengthen their sustainability goals, the R2v3 certification ensures that you’re partnering with a provider who puts responsibility as the driving force of every decision.

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What Is the R2v3 Certification?

R2v3 is the latest and most rigorous version of the Responsible Recycling Standard. It is an international benchmark designed to ensure that electronics are managed safely, ethically, and with full transparency.

The R2V3 certification for companies recycling responsibly.

It was developed by Sustainable Electronics Recycling International, and sets the rules for how certified companies handle every stage of a device’s end-of-life journey.

To earn the R2v3 certification, a recycler must show consistent compliance in:

  • Data security and destruction
  • Environmental and worker safety
  • Responsible downstream management
  • Tracking and transparency throughout the process

For businesses operating under strict data laws or tightening sustainability goals, R2v3 provides assurance that your electronics are handled as they should be.

How the R2v3 Certification Benefits

Earning the R2v3 certification is not just a badge on our name; it reshapes the way we protect your business. Every part of our process now operates under a higher level of scrutiny, giving you a safer, more dependable experience from start to finish.

Five benefits of choosing an R2V3 certified recycler.

Here is a chart that shows the differences between an R2v3 recycler and a non-certified recycler.

Category R2v3-Certified Provider Non-Certified E-Waste Recycler
Data Security
 Uses audited, documented data destruction methods. Every device is sanitized or physically destroyed using approved standards. No guarantee of proper data wiping. Devices may be resold or mishandled, increasing the risk of breaches.
Environmental Handling
 Follows strict rules to ensure zero landfill dumping, zero illegal export, and responsible recovery of materials. May dispose of devices improperly, leading to landfill waste, unsafe handling, or offshore dumping.
Compliance Support
 Provides reporting that supports HIPAA, GDPR, state privacy laws, and internal audits. Limited or no documentation. Difficult to prove compliance if audited.
Downstream Vendor Oversight
 All partners are vetted, monitored, and held to the same R2v3 requirements. Little to no accountability for where your devices end up after collection.
Chain of Custody
 Every asset is tracked from pickup to final processing with a transparent audit trail. Tracking is inconsistent or nonexistent, making it hard to verify the final destination.
Worker Safety Standards
 Must follow strict health and safety practices to protect employees and communities. Safety protocols vary widely and may not meet industry expectations.
Reputation Impact
 Demonstrates ethical, secure, and environmentally responsible disposal to clients and stakeholders. Increases risk of negative publicity tied to improper recycling or data exposure.
Overall Reliability
 Predictable, verifiable, and built on global best practices. Quality of service depends solely on the recycler’s internal processes.

Our Services Under the R2v3 Certification

Becoming R2v3 certified means every service we provide now runs on a higher standard of care. Here is how we support you:

  • E-Waste Pickup: We pick up your electronics directly from your facility and process each item in accordance with R2v3’s strict rules. From transport to final handling, every step is documented and controlled.
  • IT Asset Disposition (ITAD): Our teams evaluate, process, and manage your retired electronics with a clear chain of custody. Devices with resale value are refurbished responsibly, while the rest are dismantled safely.
  • Certified Data Destruction: Your data is eliminated using approved methods and is backed by auditable proof. This keeps the sensitive information out of the wrong hands and reduces risks.
  • E-Waste Recycling and Disposal: Every component is sorted, recovered, and recycled in accordance with global best practices. This avoids shortcuts, landfills, and overseas dumping.

If you are ready for a partner that protects your data, your reputation, and the planning, Hummingbird International is now fully equipped to help you.

FAQs

  • What services are covered under R2v3 at Hummingbird International?

All services, including IT asset disposal, e-waste pickup, secure data destruction, and recycling all adhere to R2v3 standards.

  • How will the R2v3 benefit my business?

Working with an R2v3 certified partner ensures your data destruction is secure and complies with regulatory bodies, which enhances your company’s reputation.