Recycled Content Certification

1. Work Authorization

   SCS develops a work order summarizing the scope of work and costs, based on a completed application. Upon authorization, an auditor is assigned and the process begins. Apply here. 

2. Data Collection and Analysis
 

   The auditor provides guidance to help you assemble your data and documentation.  Once this information is submitted, SCS conducts a desk audit to review your manufacturing data, processes, and chain-of-custody procedures, and claims. 

3. Onsite Audit (as needed) 

   The auditor uses a risk-based approach to determine if an onsite audit is needed prior to a certification decision. Alternatively, the auditor may identify the need for an on-site audit to take place within one year of certification. 

4. Certification Decision

   If certification is achieved, SCS issues the certificate(s), logos, and final report to you. Your auditor works with you to determine how to list your products on the certificate(s). For Recycling Program, your auditor works closely with you to determine what the specific claims are that you would like to make. Once certified, your company and products are listed on the SCS Certified Green Products Guide. SCS can also provide client marketing support.

5. Draft Assessment Report
 

   The auditor prepares a draft assessment report that details the findings of the audit, including data analysis, non-conformities, and opportunities for improvement. You are required to respond to any non-conformities with a root cause analysis and corrective action.


6. Internal Peer Review and Client Review
 

   A qualified SCS reviewer examines the report and recommends any necessary corrections or changes.  

7. Certification Decision
 

   If certification is granted, SCS issues the certificate(s), logos, and final report to you. Once certified, your company and products are listed on the SCS Certified Green Products Guide.  

8. Certification Maintenance and Renewal
 

   Certification is valid for one year, and may be renewed annually upon reauditing. 

SCS offers certification recipients a full suite of marketing support services if requested. 

Certification can help you:

• Differentiate your product and stand out in your market
• Appeal to customer preferences for more sustainable products
• Demonstrate leadership by reducing use of virgin materials
• Meet regulatory requirements
• Comply with purchasing requirements from retailers, government agencies, and others 

What is the minimum recycled content required for eligibility?

The product must contain at least 5% recycled content, either pre-consumer or post-consumer (consistent with ISO 14021), calculated based on a direct controlled blending process or mass balance allocation basis. This recycled content should be consistent for at least 30 days of continuous production.

What is the difference between pre-consumer and post-consumer recycled content?

Pre-consumer recycled content comes from manufacturing wastes such as scraps, trimmings, by-products, and overages, that are actively diverted from the waste stream.  Post-consumer recycled content is derived from products or materials that have completed their intended use and is being actively diverted from the waste stream.    

How is the recycled content percentage determined?

The total percentage of content is determined by dividing the total mass of recycled materials used by the total mass of the finished product. For instance, if the recycled material weighs 10 kilograms, and the finished product weighs 100 kilograms, then the total recycled content percentage is 10 kilograms /100 kilograms = 0.1 x 100 = 10%

What products are eligible for certification?

A wide range of products and material feedstocks across the economy are eligible for recycled content certification. Examples include:  

• Building Materials and Construction Products
• Electrical and Electronic Equipment  
• Home Goods
• Jewelry
• Metals  
• Packaging
• Plastics, Packaging Resins, and Finished Goods
• Textiles and Fiber
• Wood and Paper
• … and more 

What is the current version of the SCS Recycled Content Standard?

The current version is Version 8.0. Important updates in this version included:  

• Establishment of a minimum 5% recycled content for eligibility
• Option to achieve certification using a mass balance chain-of-custody system
• Addition of chemically-recycled content
• Recognition of external certification programs such as ISCC, FSC, the Textile Exchange Recycled Claim Standard and more 

Does SCS Recycled Content certification recognize other certifications?

Yes. Under the SCS Recycled Content Standard V8.0, we recognize the certifications you may have received under external certification programs such as ISCC, FSC, the Textile Exchange Recycled Claim Standard, and more. This helps you avoid duplication and minimize certification costs. SCS is also now an Endorsed Certifier for the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR), and offers a dual certification program with APR. Ask us for details. 

What is the typical timeframe for completing a certification?

The certification process typically takes 5-8 weeks from start to finish, depending on your preparedness and the complexity of the operation to be evaluated. In some cases, the process can be expedited.

Is there a certification for recycling programs?

If you are a recycler or reclamation facility managing an ongoing recycling program, our recycling program certification demonstrates that your efforts are delivering on their promises.