Phoenix-based Republic Services Inc. earned a top score of 100 percent and the distinction of being one of the "Best Places to Work for LGBTQ Equality" on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation's 2018 Corporate Equality Index (CEI), a national benchmarking tool on corporate policies and practices pertaining to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) workplace equality.

Republic is the sole recycling and solid waste collection provider to achieve a top score of 100 percent.

"Republic cannot thrive without hiring the best talent into a truly diverse and inclusive workplace and culture," Mike Huycke, senior vice president of human resources at Republic Services, said in a statement. "We believe in making our people feel welcomed and valued, and it is important that we provide an inclusive work environment and evolving benefits programs that enable us to recruit and retain the best people. It is part of what makes Republic a great place to work, and it has become integral to fulfilling our promise to our customers."

Republic said diversity and inclusion at the firm involves a robust talent acquisition function, ongoing employee education, manager accountability as well as prioritizing development and promotional opportunities for all employees.

The 2018 Corporate Equality Index evaluated and rated businesses nationwide on their LGBTQ-related policies and practices, including non-discrimination workplace protections, domestic partner benefits, transgender-inclusive health care benefits, competency programs and public engagement with the LGBTQ community.

Waste Management Inc. also appeared on the list, receiving a score of 80 percent. In the 2017 ranking, Waste Management received a score of 90 percent and Republic scored 85 percent.

The full report is available at www.hrc.org/cei.