IT Assets You Should Be Sending for Appliance Recycling
Are you already decommissioning your e-waste in a responsible way? That’s great news. Maybe you sought out e-waste recycling services to improve your carbon footprint, ensure data privacy, or recoup the cost of upgrading your equipment by partnering with your recyclers for safe device resale.
However, even companies with well-established electronics recycling programs may not realize that there are many more devices that you can recycle besides laptops or desktop computers.
As stated by the United Nations, only 17% of the world’s e-waste is recycled correctly each year. Most of this waste includes toxic materials, like heavy metals, that are incredibly harmful to the environment. Often, there are valuable materials within these devices as well. Studies suggest that $60 million in gold and silver is thrown away in cell phones annually.
Furthermore, improper device disposal can create a profound security risk. In the modern digital age, even seemingly innocuous devices can carry highly sensitive data that may compromise your personal or corporate information.
In short, taking a more comprehensive approach to e-waste recycling is one of the best ways to support sustainability, preserve precious commodities, and ensure data privacy across your organization.
But what if you don’t have a recycling program set up already? How important is it to prioritize e-waste and appliance recycling?
Why Send All Applicable Appliances for IT Asset Disposition
IT Asset Disposition (ITAD) is a straightforward concept. Essentially, as your company’s electronic equipment becomes outdated, you need a cohesive strategy to ensure that all equipment is disposed of in an environmentally sound manner and protects your company’s digital privacy. ITAD is the process of reusing, recycling, repairing, or disposing of unwanted IT equipment properly. This ensures that your devices do not end up in landfills, and the electronics’ parts can be reused.
Typically, companies outsource this process to e-waste recycling professionals who focus solely on ITAD. But not everyone has a full understanding of what appliances should be sent for e-waste recycling, and may be missing out on the full value of this service.
The Impact of Improper Disposal
As computers, servers, copiers, and other electronic devices become outdated, your company must have a strategy to enable you to dispose of these devices safely. Without the oversight of certified electronic waste recyclers, the data within your electronic devices could easily fall into the wrong hands and leave you vulnerable to a data breach.
Moreover, it is of the utmost importance that your outdated electronic devices be disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner. Often, companies are required to adhere to corporate and regulatory compliance measures when disposing of outdated electronic devices. Improperly disposed of electronic devices is considered to be an e-waste hazard, and it is illegal to dispose of your electronic devices in a landfill in many states because these toxic chemicals and metals leak into the surrounding environment.
Unethical or noncompliant recycling practices could lead to hefty fines, not to mention damage your company’s public reputation. But these regulations vary from place to place and may change over time, so if you do not have the assistance of a qualified electronic recycling company, it can be challenging to align with these standards.
For matters of this nature, it’s beneficial to work with specialists who understand the industry inside and out. Proper e-waste recycling not only protects your company’s senstive data and increases your company’s revenue — keep in mind that a green initiative is extremely important in this day and age. According to the World Economic Forum, e-waste is the fastest growing waste stream in the world, with over 50 million tons produced annually. As the effects of climate change become more apparent and countries move towards environmentally friendly practices, consumers are more likely to support your company when you take care of the environment.
The Problem with Storing Old Devices
Some companies avoid improper disposal by simply holding onto outdated devices, but you can’t just leave old equipment to gather dust in your workplace forever. Even beyond computers, a variety of old electronic devices can end up occupying space in the office and presenting problems for your company.
For one thing, these unwanted electronic devices are likely to contain highly sensitive data, including customer data, financial information, passwords, and more. If someone with malicious intent obtains this information from unsecured storage areas or carelessly monitored devices, the consequences can be detrimental to your entire company.
Stored devices can also represent a loss in revenue. Old electronics retain some of their financial value, if you take the opportunity to wipe them of data and resell. But every day that you leave these devices lying around the office, their value wanes and you miss out on the opportunity to extract their full monetary value.
So, what is the best way to be sure that you’re not only handling your e-waste responsibly, but comprehensively? When you’re deciding which IT assets to be recycle, extend your list beyond basic computer setups to include some often-overlooked devices.
What Items Can I Send for Appliance Recycling?
If you’re new to recycling and reusing your end-of-life electronics, then you may be surprised at how many devices are eligible for recycling. Although many companies only consider items like computers or televisions, many other devices are also eligible for electronic recycling. When you’re taking inventory of your old electronics, make sure to include the following for e-waste recycling:
- Copiers
- Printers
- Servers and data center equipment
- Modems
- Mobile devices
Depending on the electronic recycling company you’re working with, there may be yet other electronic devices that they are willing to recycle. Be sure to inquire about your options with your e-waste recycler.
Ethical E-waste Recycling with FAMCe
To properly protect yourself, your business, and the environment, don’t overlook e-waste recycling. If you’re ready to dispose of your electronics safely and ethically, enlist the help of First America Metal Corp. (FAMCe). Our organization has over 30 years of experience assisting businesses with recycling and repurposing outdated devices of all types.
At FAMCe, we deliver environmentally sustainable solutions for businesses who prefer to dispose of their old devices in a better way. Our high level of expertise and exceptional customer service have built our reputation as the leading company for your recycling needs.
Want to recycle your old devices with confidence? Contact FAMCe today for e-waste disposal that’s ethical and secure.
