Recent statistics on the World That Counts website show that we are generating more than 50 million tonnes of e-waste annually. This is equivalent to throwing out 1000 laptops every single second.
It is an alarming trend and needs urgent attention.
Tech manufacturers are churning out billions of computers every year and businesses are frantically upgrading their setups. Heaps of older devices are getting discarded, contributing to the ever-growing e-waste problem. Hence, it is vital to process e-waste responsibly, particularly for businesses that generate significant amounts of electronic waste. If not managed properly, e-waste has severe environmental and health issues.
Electronic devices contain valuable metals, but they also contain heavy metals that are hazardous in nature. These include lead, mercury, cadmium, and chromium which can leach into the environment and disturb the ecological balance. Not only this, resources are depleting rapidly with the growing need of businesses for new electronic devices and causing global e-waste crisis. Hence, disposing of old computers in a responsible manner is crucial for businesses.
There exists such entities that help you safely discard your electronic goods. One such global solution for your e-waste management and e-waste recycling is USH Recyclers Pvt. Ltd, an electronic recycling solution.
Why Dispose Computers Responsibly?
- It helps our planet and fosters sustainability
- Reduces electronic waste (e-waste)
- Conserves natural resources (water, energy, metals)
- Protects the environment from toxic materials
- It keeps confidential info of businesses safe
- Protects customer data and privacy
- Safeguards business secrets and intellectual property
- Prevents identity theft and cybercrime
- It ensures legal conformity
- Complies with regulations (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA)
- Avoids fines and penalties for non-compliance
- Maintains business reputation and trust
A Step-by-Step Guide to Computer Disposal for Businesses
Below are the steps that can be followed before, during and after disposal:
Rules to follow before Disposal
1. Erase all data
Use certified data destruction software (e.g., DoD 5220.22-M) to ensure wiping of all sensitive data and mitigate the risk of cyber attacks.
2. Remove hard drives
Take out hard drives, SSDs, and tapes. Store them securely in a locked facility. Destroy or recycle separately to prevent data recover. Hard drives can be sent for shredding separately too.
3. Make a record of devices
Document device details that include make, model, and serial number. Record device condition and functionality. Track disposal process for audit purposes.
4. Package for transport
Use secure packaging materials and labeling and ensure proper transportation means. It is advisable to use the original box, however, if not available, use bubble wraps and secure padding. Label it properly.
5. Choose the most suited disposal option
It could be any of the following:
- Recycling- Partner with certified recyclers (R2, e-Stewards). Ensure environmental friendly process for computer disposal. Recover valuable materials (copper, gold, silver).
- Donating working devices- Give devices to charities or non-profit organizations. This not only reduces waste but also supports community development and digital inclusion.
Rules to follow during Disposal
- Make a disposal plan This should highlight the members involved in the disposal team and outline clear procedures followed. Also, make sure to schedule regular disposal and maintenance.
- Choose trusted recyclers
Research certified recyclers and industry certifications. Ensure they adhere to environmentally responsible practices and also data destruction and security.
3. Document the process for records
Document disposal process and verification in detail. Store records securely for audit purposes and maintain an audit trail for regulatory compliance.
Rules to follow after Disposal
- Get a certification as destruction-proof Obtaining the certificate of destruction is one of the most crucial steps. As businesses have computer disposal targets set by governing bodies such as CPCB in the case of India, such certification is proof that a company’s e-waste targets are met.
Conclusion
It is an alarming fact that a major percentage of old computers along with other appliances across the globe are shipped to Asia or Africa for treatment. Enormous quantities are incinerated and that too by children. It may be an easy way out for businesses, but they end up generating lots of toxic components and are only a part of the problem.
In the light of these issues, businesses may adopt recycling and other alternatives to improve their brand reputation, or cut down costs. This step-by-step article on how to dispose old computers properly can help them strategize better.