Press Release: August 17, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: GRSO (RIOS) and NSF Announce Strategic Alliance to Strengthen RIOS Compliance Infrastructure Across India

Washington, DC – GRSO (RIOS) and NSF are pleased to announce a strategic collaboration aimed at expanding and strengthening recycling compliance capabilities throughout India and the surrounding region across a broad range of commodities, including electronics and IT Assets, scrap metals, plastics, paper and cardboard, tires, batteries, and other recyclable materials. This milestone marks the successful completion of the RIOS Auditor Course by NSF’s team in India and the establishment of a robust regional compliance infrastructure to support organizations seeking RIOS certification.

Through this alliance, NSF is now equipped with qualified RIOS auditors and the operational framework necessary to deliver consistent, high-quality auditing services that align with the globally recognized Recycling Industry Operating Standard (RIOS). The initiative enhances regional access to experienced auditors while reinforcing the integrity and consistency of the RIOS certification process.

The collaboration represents a significant investment in advancing environmental stewardship, operational excellence, health and safety, and quality management within the recycling industry. By building local auditing capacity and strengthening compliance infrastructure, GRSO (RIOS) and NSF’s team in India are making it easier for recycling organizations throughout the region to achieve and maintain internationally recognized RIOS certification.

“This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to raising the standard of operational excellence in India’s recycling industry,” said Shannon Fertitta, GRSO (RIOS) Executive Director. “By establishing qualified auditing resources and a strong compliance infrastructure within the region, we are creating greater accessibility to RIOS certification while maintaining the integrity and value of the standard.”

Stacey DeSantis, Technical Scheme Lead, NSF added, “Our collaboration with RIOS reflects a shared commitment to advancing best practices across the global recycling industry. NSF has supported the development of RIOS’ auditing infrastructure and participated in training and competency-building initiatives designed to ensure a strong and credible certification programme. For recyclers in India, RIOS certification provides an opportunity to demonstrate excellence in quality, environmental, health and safety conformance, while strengthening credibility with customers and stakeholders across the value chain.”

The strategic alliance underscores both organizations’ commitment to supporting the growth of responsible recycling practices and helping businesses implement management systems that improve environmental performance, workplace safety, product quality, and operational efficiency.

Organizations interested in learning more about RIOS certification or auditing services are encouraged to contact GRSO (RIOS) or NSF for additional information.

About GRSO (RIOS)

GRSO administers the Recycling Industry Operating Standard (RIOS), an internationally recognized integrated management system designed specifically for the recycling industry. RIOS combines quality, environmental, and health and safety management into a comprehensive framework that helps recycling facilities improve performance, reduce risk, and demonstrate operational excellence.

About NSF

NSF, a global organization, provides testing, inspection, certification, auditing, and advisory services that help organizations improve quality, safety, sustainability, and regulatory compliance across a wide range of industries.

Media Contact

GRSO (RIOS)
Shannon Fertitta
Executive Director
sfertitta@rioscertification.org
202-662-8554

NSF (India and Middle East)                                                                                                                  

Shreeraj Desai
Business Lead, Assurance & Inspection
shrdesai@nsf.org
91-0-810770300