SERI, Microsoft and PCRR Launch R2 Ready for Reuse label pilot

SERI, Boulder, Colorado, has announced the launch of the pilot phase of the R2 Ready for Reuse label project, which will provide purchasers of used computers assurance that the used devices have been responsibly refurbished, the organization says.

Supported by Microsoft, Chicago-based PC Rebuilders and Recyclers and SERI, administrator of the Responsible Recycling Practices (R2) Standard, the program provides participating R2 certified computer refurbishing and recycling companies with R2 Ready for Reuse labels that each contain a unique serial number. One of the labels is attached to each R2 Ready for Reuse computer, allowing purchasers to look up the serial number and view the testing record for that unit to ensure it is in good working condition.

Sean Nicholson, worldwide manager for Microsoft OEM Refurbisher Programs, says, "Microsoft is committed to improving the quality of refurbished PCs, extending the useful life of the resources that went into them and providing more price points and choices for PC purchasers. Choosing an R2 Ready for Reuse-labeled PC is a great way to see the quality of what you are getting and know it is being overseen by SERI a leading environmental nonprofit committed to a better world.”

SERI Program Director Henry Leineweber says, “We wanted something that gave consumers confidence in the quality of refurbished PCs. When Microsoft and PCRR approached us with this concept, we instantly recognized its potential to accomplish this goal."

The pilot phase of the R2 Ready for Reuse label project will focus on gathering data on how the labels are used, their effectiveness as a sales and transparency tool, the effectiveness of the online database, interest in the computer repair and refurbishing industry and other factors, SERI says.

The initial phase of the pilot will include five companies and will run from January 2016 to June of that year. At that point the project partners will evaluate the project’s progress and decide whether to expand the pilot program to include more companies.

More information on the Ready for Reuse project, including applications to participate, can be found at https://sustainableelectronics.org/ready-reuse. Applications will be accepted through Dec. 31, 2015.