Recognizing the need for a comprehensive certification program that addressed the operational and environmental challenges in electronics recycling and repair, the EPA convened a multi-stakeholder process to develop the "Responsible Recycling practices for Use in Accredited Certifications Programs" (R2). The goal was to create a voluntary, market-based mechanism for ensuring best practices, which would also provide essential information/assurances to prospective customers. The development of the standard occurred through a transparent, balanced, consensus-based process. The standards development process took three years from start to finish.