'R2 Code of Practices' constitutes a tool available for promoting the adoption of
Answer & explanation
Answer: (a) environmentally responsible practices in electronics recycling industry
R2 stands for 'Responsible Recycling', a certification standard for electronics recyclers. Recyclers audited against it show that they handle used electronics and e-waste safely for the environment, workers and data security.
- ✓ (a) The R2 (Responsible Recycling) Standard is one of two accredited certification standards the US Environmental Protection Agency recognises for electronics recyclers.
- ✗ (b) Ramsar sites are managed under the Ramsar Convention's own guidance, such as the Montreux Record; R2 has nothing to do with wetlands.
- ✗ (d) Environmental Impact Assessment is a separate regulatory process for projects, not the R2 recycling code.
Remember · R2 = Responsible Recycling, a voluntary certification for electronics (e-waste) recyclers; its main counterpart is the e-Stewards standard.
Sources
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Certified Electronics Recyclers ↗ “Currently two accredited certification standards exist: the Responsible Recycling ("R2") Standard for Electronics Recyclers … Both programs advance best management practices and offer a way to assess the environmental, worker health and safety, and security practices of entities managing used electronics.”
Question and answer: UPSC's official GS Paper I (2021, Series A) — paper ↗ · answer key ↗. Explanation: Minimalist IAS, checked 30 Sept 2026 (how we verify). ·