Five Things Every Midwest Business Should Know About Disposing of Office Electronics

By Clint Parsons, Director of Strategic Partnerships at SEAM

Electronic waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the world. In 2022 alone, 62 million metric tons of e-waste were generated globally—nearly double the amount in 2010. With this growth showing no signs of slowing, e-waste is expected to exceed 80 million metric tons by 2030. Despite these staggering numbers, over three-quarters of e-waste remains undocumented, underscoring the urgent need for better recycling and recovery efforts.

For businesses in South Dakota, North Dakota, and Iowa, responsible e-waste disposal is critical—not only for the environment but also for protecting sensitive data and complying with regulations. Here are five important things to know:

1. Understand State and Federal Rules

E-waste regulations vary by state. In Iowa, while there are no statewide mandates for e-waste recycling, federal laws govern the proper disposal of hazardous materials. Iowa businesses must also adhere to specific rules for certain components, like cathode ray tubes (CRTs) found in older devices, which require special handling permits.

South Dakota and North Dakota don’t have state-specific e-waste laws, but federal guidelines still apply—especially for items classified as hazardous waste. Regardless of where your business is located, staying ahead of potential legislation is a proactive way to ensure compliance and avoid environmental harm.

2. Electronics Contain Hazardous Materials

Devices like computers, monitors, and cell phones are made with materials such as lead, mercury, and cadmium. These substances are safe while contained in the device but can leach into the ground or water if improperly disposed of.

This is why throwing electronics in the trash is not an option. Certified recycling processes ensure these materials are handled safely, often recovering components for reuse while keeping harmful substances out of landfills.

3. Recycling and Donation Options

Before discarding office electronics, consider whether they can be donated or recycled. Many local charities or community organizations in South Dakota, North Dakota, and Iowa accept gently used equipment. Even broken devices may contain parts that can be reused or refurbished.

If you plan to donate, it’s essential to work with an ITAD (IT Asset Disposition) provider first to ensure all sensitive data is securely wiped. Donating without proper data destruction can expose your business to data breaches, even on non-functional devices.

Additionally, while some cities and counties offer e-waste recycling programs, these programs often apply only to residents—not businesses. Be sure to check the requirements in advance. If your business isn’t eligible, you may need to work directly with an ITAD provider for safe and compliant recycling.

4. Data Security is Essential

When it comes to disposing of old electronics, safeguarding sensitive data is non-negotiable. A simple factory reset might seem sufficient, but it doesn’t always guarantee complete data removal—leaving your business vulnerable to data breaches or regulatory violations.

For true peace of mind, partnering with an ITAD (IT Asset Disposition) provider is often your best bet. These professionals use advanced methods to securely erase data, ensuring compliance with privacy regulations like HIPAA for businesses handling personal or medical information.

While it’s always wise to back up critical files before disposing of any device, an ITAD provider can handle the rest, giving you confidence that your data won’t fall into the wrong hands.

5. Develop a Disposal Policy

Creating a clear disposal policy can save time and reduce confusion when it’s time to upgrade or replace equipment. A good policy outlines the steps for safely managing old devices, ensures compliance with applicable laws, and helps all team members understand the process.

This is especially helpful for businesses with multiple locations or large inventories of electronics, as it provides a consistent framework for handling e-waste.

Need Help?

Managing e-waste responsibly doesn’t have to be overwhelming. If you’re unsure where to start or need guidance, SEAM can help. With expertise in secure data destruction and e-waste recycling, SEAM supports businesses across South Dakota, North Dakota, and Iowa in protecting their data and the environment.

Contact SEAM today to learn more about safe and sustainable solutions for your old electronics.

Clint Parsons is the Director of Strategic Partnerships at SEAM, specializing in building partnerships with businesses of all sizes. He ensures clients effectively navigate secure data destruction, responsible recycling, and maximize the resale value of their IT equipment while staying compliant with evolving regulations.