The process of waste certification: what does it entail and why is it important?

Waste management is an essential part of sustainable business. Companies are increasingly faced with regulations and requirements around waste management. One way to demonstrate that waste is managed in a responsible and environmentally friendly way is through waste certification. But what exactly does this entail? And why is it important for companies to take waste certification seriously?

In this blog, we dive deeper into the process of waste certification, discuss the main certificates and show how companies can benefit from them.

What is waste certification?

Waste certification is a process whereby companies and waste processors obtain recognised seals of approval and certificates demonstrating compliance with legal and environmental standards. This can cover waste collection, treatment, recycling and reuse.

The aim of waste certification is to provide transparency and reliability within the waste chain. Certifications show that a company has environmentally friendly practices and adheres to national and international regulations.

Why is waste certification important?

Waste certification has several advantages for companies:

1. Legal compliance: Many industries are bound by strict environmental laws and guidelines. Certification helps companies demonstrate compliance with these obligations, avoiding fines and legal problems.
2. Achieving sustainability targets: Companies with ambitious sustainability goals can use waste certification as proof of their commitment to circularity and responsible waste management. This contributes to a green image.
3. Reliability and credibility: A certified waste management process exudes confidence to customers, investors and other stakeholders. It shows that a company takes responsibility for its waste streams.
4. Cost savings: Good waste management and certification go hand in hand with more efficient processes. By separating and recycling waste better, companies can save costs on waste disposal and even generate revenue from recyclable materials.
5. Access to new markets: Some industries and government agencies require specific certifications before engaging with a company. Waste certification can therefore provide a competitive advantage and open up new business opportunities.

The process of waste certification

Obtaining waste certification usually follows a number of set steps. Below, we describe what this process looks like.

1. Inventory of waste streams
Before a company can apply for certification, it must understand its waste management. This means:

• Mapping all waste streams within the company.
• Identifying reusable and recyclable materials.
• Assessing current waste treatment methods.

2. Choosing the right certification
There are different types of certifications that companies can obtain. The choice depends on the sector, waste types and sustainability goals. Some well-known certifications are:

• ISO 14001 - Focused on environmental management systems and responsible handling of waste.
• FSC certification - For companies that manage paper and wood waste and want to demonstrate that their material comes from sustainable sources.
• WEEELABEX - For companies handling electronic waste according to European directives.
• CO₂-Performanceladder - For companies that want to reduce their CO₂ emissions and include sustainable waste management in their strategy.

3. Implementation of improvements
Depending on the requirements of the chosen certification, companies need to optimise their waste management. This could mean:

• Implementing a structured waste registration system.
• Training employees in waste separation and sustainability.
• Working with certified waste processors and recyclers.

4. Audit and certification
When a company thinks it is ready for certification, an independent audit is carried out by an accredited body. This audit assesses whether the waste management process meets the set standards.

• In case of a positive assessment, the company receives the certification.
• If there are areas for improvement, the company is given the chance to address them before certification is granted.

5. Continuous monitoring and recertification
Waste certification is not a one-off process. Companies must continue to monitor their processes and get recertified periodically to remain compliant. This helps ensure long-term quality and efficiency in waste management.

Challenges and pitfalls in waste certification

While waste certification offers many benefits, there are also some challenges that companies need to consider:

• Complexity of regulation - Legislation around waste management varies from country to country and region to region. It is important to stay up-to-date with the latest developments.
• Costs and time investment - The certification process requires a financial and organisational investment. However, the long-term benefits often outweigh the initial costs.
• Internal resistance - Employees need to be involved in sustainable waste management. Without support within the organisation, certification can be more difficult.

A reliable waste management partner can help overcome these challenges and make the certification process more efficient.

Conclusion

Waste certification is a powerful tool for companies seeking to ensure responsible waste management. It helps comply with legislation, strengthens sustainability performance and offers financial and commercial benefits.

By choosing the right certification and working with an experienced waste management partner such as Eurowaste, companies can optimise their waste streams and contribute to a circular economy.

Want to know how your company can benefit from waste certification? Contact Eurowaste for a no-obligation consultation and find out how we can help you successfully go through the certification process.