3 Ways to Prepare Your Company’s Electronics for IT Asset Recycling

It’s no secret that electronic waste (e-waste) is a major problem across the globe. Thousands of companies are still ditching their outdated electronic equipment the old-fashioned way, which is terrible for the environment. Fortunately, there is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution known as IT asset recycling.

If your business has antiquated equipment that needs to be disposed of, then you might find that you can benefit from IT asset recycling. However, it is vital that you prepare your company’s electronics in order to ensure a smooth transition.

Below, we outline three simple ways to do just that.

1. Delete Old Files

When you’re preparing to get rid of old electronics, your first step should always be to wipe out any data. This process is often referred to as data sanitization. There are several different methods that you can use to sanitize your devices.

The most straightforward method involves simply deleting the data. However, you must take a few additional steps to ensure that all of your confidential files are completely removed from the device. For instance, you should always perform disk wiping on hard drives to completely remove your data.

Most devices, such as tablets and office equipment, give you the option to perform a factory reset. Doing so will wipe basic files and restore default settings. However, unless the hard drive is completely wiped and destroyed, some files may be left behind.

When you want to be sure that your equipment is fully wiped so that your company’s data doesn’t fall into the wrong hands, turn to a professional service for electronic wiping.

2. Sort Equipment

Once you are certain that your files have been removed, it is time to organize your equipment. Carefully check every device to ensure that memory cards and batteries have been removed. Ink cartridges should also be removed.

Separate these items from one another as each component may need to undergo different processes at the recycling facility. This is because some equipment contains different types of metals that need to be recycled in a particular way.

By taking a proactive approach and removing these items yourself, you can speed up the recycling process. This will make the asset collection team’s job much easier. In addition, it will minimize interruptions to your company’s normal operations.

3. Educate Employees

While most business owners understand the importance of wiping old data and sorting out electronic waste, it can be easy to overlook the human element. However, it is important that you generate a fair amount of employee buy-in to facilitate a smooth recycling process.

Educate your employees on the unique benefits of IT asset recycling. You might also want to consider offering some sort of incentive for participating in e-waste recycling. Doing so can boost morale and increase buy-in for your program.

Asset Recycling with SEAM

When you need a qualified IT asset recycling team in South Dakota, look no further than the experts at SEAM. Our skilled professionals provide our clients with certified, compliant, and secure data destruction and electronics recycling. Contact SEAM today for a quote on our IT asset recycling services!