ISRI updates its position on environmental justice

With increasing concerns on environmental justice facing the scrap recycling industry, the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI), Washington, has released an updated position on environmental justice and the recycling industry’s commitment to its communities. The new position was passed by ISRI’s board of directors May 14 during the association’s Spring 2021 Board and Committee meetings.

According to the position, the association supports:

• the equal treatment and opportunity for all people regardless of race, ethnic origin, heritage, language or economic status;
• contributing positively to the communities in which members operate, including the opportunity to be heard;
• promoting continued environmental stewardship; and
• promoting the health and safety of employees, customers and communities.

“The U.S. recycling industry has its roots in multigenerational family businesses with longstanding investments and engagement in the communities in which we are located,” ISRI states. “While the recycling industry today is composed of a mix of small, midsize and large companies, with some family-owned and others publicly held corporations, recyclers across the country support the social well-being of their communities through long-term economic investment and stewardship of the environment.

“Recyclers’ presence in communities is positive and contributes to economic development, providing direct and indirect jobs, as well as a strengthened tax base for funding local schools and services,” the association continues. “The recycling industry plays the primary role in transforming otherwise discarded materials into recyclable raw materials. These recycled raw materials are then manufactured into new products, driving economic and environmental sustainability and reducing waste and CO2 emissions.”

According to a news release from ISRI, the association’s position is that it’s committed to “proactive actions that prevent risks to workers by implementing protocols designed to maintain a workplace free from hazards, operating at the highest standards and employing the best business practices” such as ongoing training for employees, monitoring work environments and regular equipment maintenance.

ISRI states, “It is the recycling industry’s desire that all voices are heard, injustice is avoided and shared objectives are achieved in ways that are economically and operationally beneficial for all.”