Celebrating Global Recycling Day: Advancing Sustainability Through Certified Practices

18 March 2025

Today is Global Recycling Day. Every year on March 18th, individuals and organisations are urged to reflect on the critical role recycling plays in preserving our planet’s resources and promoting sustainable development. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of integrating recycling into our daily personal and business operations to ensure a brighter future for all.

More than just waste management

Recycling plays a pivotal role in the fight against climate change by repurposing materials. Reducing the need to extract raw materials protects natural resources and decreases greenhouse gas emissions. For example, recycling an aluminium can can save up to 95% of the energy required to produce the same amount of aluminium from raw materials. Practices like this highlight how individuals and businesses' collective efforts in recycling can lead to substantial environmental benefits.

Benefits of sustainable certification

Organisations worldwide are obtaining sustainable certification to establish a structured framework for environmental responsibility. These standards demonstrate an organisation’s commitment to global sustainability and enhance operational efficiency.

At NQA, we provide independent certification, verification, and training for a range of ESG standards. Learn more about our sustainability solutions here: NQA Sustainability Products Overview 2025.

ISO 14064-1: Greenhouse Gas Inventory Verification

This standard helps ensure an organisation's carbon footprint calculation is accurate in measurement and reporting. By doing so, companies can identify key areas for emission reductions and implement effective mitigation strategies. We provide third-party verification in accordance with ISO 14064-1 to ensure GHG inventory reporting is transparent and credible.

ISO 14068-1/PAS 2060: Carbon Neutrality

For organisations aiming to achieve carbon neutrality, these standards offer comprehensive guidelines on reducing GHG emissions and utilising carbon credits responsibly. PAS 2060 is a standard designed to verify accuracy in claims and help companies achieve carbon neutrality through continual improvement. ISO 14068-1 provides a framework for achieving and demonstrating carbon neutrality, with a focus on the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

PAS 2080: Carbon Management in Buildings and Infrastructure

Targeted at stakeholders within the construction and infrastructure sectors, PAS 2080 provides a common framework for managing carbon emissions throughout the value chain.

ISO 26000: Social Responsibility

Beyond environmental concerns, ISO 26000 addresses the social aspects of sustainability. It offers a framework for organisations to implement socially responsible practices. This standard emphasises the importance of ethical behaviour, human rights, and community involvement in achieving overall sustainability.

ISO 20121: Sustainable Events Management Systems

For the events industry, ISO 20121 provides guidelines to improve sustainability performance. By focusing on supply chain management, stakeholder engagement, and continuous improvement, this standard helps organisations plan and deliver events that minimise environmental impacts and promote social responsibility.

Taking Action This Global Recycling Day

As we observe Global Recycling Day, it's essential to recognise that sustainable practices extend beyond recycling alone. Implementing certified standards like those mentioned above can significantly enhance an organisation's environmental and social performance. By adopting these frameworks, businesses not only contribute to global sustainability efforts but also gain a competitive edge in an increasingly eco-conscious market.

How You Can Participate:

Educate and Train: Invest in sustainability training to understand and implement relevant standards effectively.
Assess and Certify: Consider obtaining certifications for standards like ISO 14064-1 or ISO 20121 to reinforce your commitment to sustainability.
Engage Stakeholders: Collaborate with suppliers, customers, and the community to promote recycling and sustainable practices.
Monitor Progress: Regularly assess your organisation's environmental impact and seek continuous improvement.

To find out more about ways to make your organisation more sustainable and have a positive impact on our planet, please contact our team here or visit our Sustainability Hub.