According to the UN Environment Programme, up to 90% of the world’s electronic waste (worth nearly $12 billion) is illegally traded or dumped each year. In large part, this can be seen as a direct consequence of our changing business habits. Businesses are now more reliant than ever on technology for the day to day operations of the company. Technology has transformed the way we conduct business for the better, streamlining finance and administration, and rendering communication instant and seamless. The unforeseen consequence of our increased reliance on technology in business, however, is an exponential increase in the volume of e-waste being generated in the form of unwanted printers, fax, machines, laptops, phones and a myriad of other such devices.
This vast output of e-waste poses a serious problem not only for businesses, but for the world we inhabit, as the consequences of illegally dumped e-waste on the environment becomes ever more apparent.
The Dangers of E-Waste
Although our sleekly designed electronic devices may appear to be harmless enough, all electronics are filled with chemicals and substances that can be harmful to the environment, as well as human beings, if improperly disposed of. Some of the harmful elements in electronic devices include flame retardants, toxic metals and a variety of hazardous chemicals.
These elements are generally exposed after a piece of electronic waste has been deposited in landfill, whereupon the outer casing is damaged and the components contained within are no longer protected. As the elements continue to breakdown in the cycle of landfill disposal, dangerous and hazardous chemicals such as mercury, cadmium, lead and beryllium begin to leak into the land itself. Once these harmful chemicals have been exposed, they can have an extremely toxic effect on the surrounding atmosphere, leading to air pollution and water and soil contamination.
Responsible E-Waste Recycling Solutions
Considering the potentially catastrophic impact of e-waste on the environment, it is crucial that businesses take responsibility for the safe disposal of their outdated IT assets. This is where IT asset disposal excels. A reputable ITAD company will be able to take weight of responsibility for the disposal of IT assets from your company, not only ensuring that the data contained within the devices are securely deleted, but that all electronic assets are disposed of and recycled in an environmentally friendly manner. An IT asset disposal company will also ensure that your assets are disposed of in-line with the relevant regulations dictating the proper disposal of e-waste. In the UK, these regulations include the WEEE Directive, Environmental Protection Act 1990 and Landfill Regulations Act 2002. Only a reputable and fully qualified ITAD vendor will be able to guarantee compliance with these regulations, so be sure to quiz any potential partner on their approach to e-waste regulatory compliance.
With over 25 years industry experience, tier1 are proud to be the UK’s most accredited ITAD supplier. We possess the skills, accreditations and experience to handle our clients’ data with the care they deserve, and to dispose of it responsibility and legally.
Contact us today on 0161 777 1000 or visit https://www.tier1.com to find out how we can help you dispose of your data safely and reliably.
