How does the RMS compare with the APR Endorsement for certification?

APR has developed an “Endorsement” program. If one of their members is verified by an outside party that meets their criteria, they can get recognition from APR. The recognition is limited to the reclaimer (i.e., the plastic recycler), addresses post-consumer plastics only, and lacks a chain of custody mechanism.

We have developed a comprehensive third party chain of custody standard – and a new environmental commodity (certificate based system) we call Attributes of Recycled Content (ARCs). The RMS promises to be the most comprehensive standard available, creating the rigor but also the flexibility for enabling companies to demonstrate their commitments to supporting recycling. The RMS will eventually expand beyond plastics. We anticipate that some APR members will pursue RMS certification using certification bodies which are already approved by APR, which would likely render them eligible for APR endorsement.