Spotlight on Shannon Fertitta and RIOS Championing Responsible Recycling

The best way to think of Shannon Fertitta, the Executive Director of RIOS (Recycling Industry Operating Standard) is that she is a fireball of passion.  And that infectious fireball energy is critically needed in the ever-evolving world of recycling.  Few leaders stand out like Shannon Fertitta.  With a passion for environmental stewardship and a commitment to responsible recycling practices, Shannon has become a driving force in the movement to ensure that electronic waste is managed efficiently and ethically.
 

The Origins and Evolution of RIOS

Shannon Fertitta believes that it’s important for people to understand how RIOS started and is presently evolving.  It all began about 20 years ago, in 2006, with the Recycled Materials Association (ReMA), which used to be known as ISRI. 

ISRI was made up of a variety of members representing all types of recycling commodities. This includes recyclers of plastics, metals, and all other materials. The visionary leaders of those organizations got together and determined that there really should be some kind of an independent management standard for how recycling facilities are operating.  So, they formed a board with a mandate to create such a standard, and that is how RIOS began.

Again, RIOS stands for the Recycling Industry Operating Standard.  RIOS is the only quality, environment, and health and safety management standard created specifically for the recycling industry.  Once again, let’s emphasize that it's the only one that exists.  Hence, it's very special.  And the visionary leaders of ISRI got together and decided that this standard needed to be created.
 

Since 2006, much has happened, and RIOS has consistently evolved.  In 2008, the first facility became RIOS certified. 

From there, RIOS continued on its path of consistent growth in popularity as people started to learn more about it, and discover what a great resource it is for recyclers.
 

Around 2010, RIOS forged a partnership with SERI.  This meant that through this partnership, RIOS became aligned as an accepted QEHS component of the R2 (Responsible Recycling) standard.  Indeed, partnering with SERI was a significant achievement for RIOS.

This period also kicked off the broad recognition, use, and adoption of RIOS by the electronics recycling industry.  Building on the success of RIOS 2006, and integrating lessons learned over a decade, RIOS:2016 was released.

The RIOS leadership team is currently drafting a standard revision with exciting updates and enhancements.  For instance, the upcoming release will address the developments related to battery hazards, solar panels, legal and export updates, and the like.  Again, it’s about ensuring that we stay current.  Shannon Fertitta is emphatic that “RIOS is a great standard. It doesn't need to be re-written, but the recycling industry is rapidly evolving - much has changed in the past few years that we should capture in our update.  Presently, there is a committee made up of top industry experts that have all gotten together to come up with those updates.” And Shannon says that those are “exciting changes that are coming to RIOS.”
 

"At RIOS, we believe that responsible recycling is not just an obligation, it’s an opportunity," Shannon explains. This philosophy has guided her efforts to ensure that RIOS remains and expands as a strong certification program that sets the bar for best practices in the recycling industry.

The Value, Importance, and Power of RIOS

RIOS is more than just a certification standard, it is a comprehensive framework designed to enhance the operational practices of recycling facilities.  By implementing the RIOS standard, organizations can ensure that their recycling processes minimize environmental impact while maximizing resource recovery.

Shannon Fertitta emphasizes the importance of the RIOS certification, "It’s about creating a culture of responsibility in recycling.  When facilities adopt these standards, they not only improve their operations, but also contribute to a more sustainable future.”

Shannon has first-hand experience with the power of RIOS.  Being R2 and RIOS certified at her previous organization, Shannon Fertitta was deeply involved with this management system. Shannon observes, “I was deeply involved with how this can improve my business.  I have seen a facility before and after.  And I have witnessed the improvements with my eyes.  I have seen how using these systems to capture your risks and measure your outcomes changes everything.  Yes, it changes everything, and you suddenly have a firm handle, a firm grip on your business, on everything, and you can talk about it.  This helps you to articulate to people what you do and why it matters, why it's important, why it's positive.  We have to dispel negative ideas about the recycling industry and showcase it.  Recycling is the greatest industry.  I'm so proud to be a part of the recycling industry.”  Indeed, Shannon fell into the recycling industry while studying to become a teacher.  But then she realized the vital importance and power of recycling, and stayed there, it’s a decision that she cherishes.

A Commitment to Education

One of Shannon's core beliefs is that education plays a vital role in promoting responsible recycling.  Through outreach initiatives, RIOS provides resources and training to help recycling facilities understand and implement best practices.  Shannon is passionate about empowering organizations to take charge of their sustainability efforts.

“We want to equip recyclers with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed,” she emphasizes. “Education is the foundation for change, and together we can inspire a new generation of responsible recyclers.”

Shannon wants recyclers to understand that they get a multiplier effect when they partner with RIOS as it is a great resource center.  RIOS is an advocate for its members, and RIOS is there to help them succeed.  The RIOS team is available to help guide them, especially if they have steps that they're not quite sure about.  Shannon says, “We’ll help guide you with those steps.”  Referring to IBEC Inc, she says, “I know that you guys do the same thing. You guys are there to help with advocacy and guiding steps too, so I really appreciate your partnership, and I appreciate your place in this industry, I think that IBEC is really helping take these businesses to the next level.”  In essence, both RIOS and IBEC are educating businesses on how to get to the right destination.  So do organizations like SERI and e-Stewards.

Looking Ahead

As the landscape of recycling continues to evolve, Shannon Fertitta remains steadfast in her mission to advocate for responsible practices.  With new technologies and innovative approaches emerging, she is excited about the future of RIOS and its role in shaping the recycling industry.

"Every day presents an opportunity for growth and improvement," Shannon reflects.  "By staying committed to our principles and fostering collaboration, we can make a lasting impact on the environment and our communities."

Championing Change

Under Shannon Fertitta’s leadership, RIOS has not only expanded its reach, but has also fostered collaboration among stakeholders in the recycling industry.  By bringing together recyclers, manufacturers, and policy makers, RIOS advocates for policies that support responsible recycling practices on a broader scale.  On the day we spoke with Shannon, she had just flown back from Washington, DC, where she had teamed up with ReMA leaders to advocate on Capitol Hill.  In her advocacy work, Shannon has been a strong voice for recyclers, which led to her participating in discussions on Capitol Hill to highlight the essential role recycling plays in the economy and environment.  "Our industry is vital," she asserts.  “Recycling represents nearly 600,000 jobs in the U.S. alone."  Shannon wants us to know that many of the things we use every day are thanks to recycled materials.”
 

"Collaboration is key to addressing the challenges of e-waste," Shannon notes.  "We need to work together to create systems that are not only effective but also equitable for all involved."  Shannon is thankful to the RIOS Board of Directors, who are working tirelessly to ensure that the impact of RIOS is maximized.  She says, “I have got incredible leadership.  I could never… do this job effectively if it weren't for my absolutely incredible Board of Directors that represents every sector of the recycling industry.  So, they're bringing unique perspectives that are important in helping guide this organization, and make sure that we're serving our membership in the most effective ways possible.”

Under Shannon's leadership, RIOS as an organization has continued to grow, and now includes over 300 member recyclers, each committed to responsible practices.  The organization focuses exclusively on recyclers, distinguishing it from international standards organizations like ISO, which, while well-known, do not offer the same level of support.

Shannon's background as an electronics recycling facility manager for 22 years gives her a unique perspective on the benefits of RIOS certification.  "I've seen firsthand how these systems can transform operations by effectively evaluating and managing quality, safety, and environmental practices," she reflects.
 

Personal Commitment and Community Engagement

Beyond her role at RIOS, Shannon is deeply committed to community outreach. She leads initiatives to support underserved populations in Baton Rouge, providing meals and services to those in need.

In her personal life, Shannon enjoys spending time with her family, attending concerts, and engaging in community activities. Shannon and her husband have a shared enthusiasm for music.  Shannon’s supportive family, which includes three children, fuels her passion for her work.

Shannon Fertitta’s leadership at RIOS exemplifies a powerful blend of expertise, passion, and commitment to sustainability. Through her efforts, RIOS not only sets a high standard for responsible recycling, but also empowers over 300 facilities to operate with integrity and purpose.  As the recycling industry faces new challenges, Shannon’s vision and advocacy are sure to lead the way toward a more sustainable future.

For those interested in learning more about RIOS or seeking guidance on responsible recycling practices, Shannon welcomes conversations, an invitation reflecting her belief in collaboration and community.  Shannon Fertitta also praises organizations like IBEC Inc for the guidance they provide to organizations helping them achieve certification for RIOS and other standards.

"Together, we can make a meaningful impact," she concludes, embodying the fiery spirit of passion to progress that defines her leadership.