Why ITAD Deserves Your Attention: Lessons from Walmart and Beyond

By: Levi Hentges , Vice President/Business Development, SEAM

When Walmart was recently hit with a $7.5 million fine for improper disposal of hazardous waste, it wasn’t just another compliance story. It was a stark reminder of the growing scrutiny on how businesses handle their end-of-life IT equipment.

For businesses across South Dakota and North Dakota, this raises an important question: Are you confident in how your outdated IT equipment is managed? If not, the consequences could be far-reaching, touching on everything from data security to environmental compliance.

The Data Dilemma

Every outdated server, laptop, and hard drive in your office still holds sensitive information. Whether it’s employee records, customer details, or trade secrets, these devices can be a liability if not disposed of securely.

Data breaches don’t just happen online; physical devices improperly handled are a significant risk. Without a clear plan for secure IT Asset Disposition (ITAD), businesses are leaving themselves vulnerable to leaks, fines, and reputational damage.

Compliance Isn’t Optional

Environmental laws governing electronic waste are becoming stricter, and enforcement is ramping up. The Walmart case highlights how even high-profile companies struggle with compliance. For local businesses, the cost of non-compliance may not make headlines, but it can still be devastating—ranging from fines to lost contracts.

Retailers, schools, healthcare providers, and banks all share a responsibility to handle electronic waste responsibly. It’s not just about avoiding penalties—it’s about demonstrating accountability to customers and stakeholders.

Sustainability Matters to Everyone

E-waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the world. Businesses that embrace sustainable practices are not just helping the environment—they’re aligning with what employees, customers, and partners increasingly value.

By ensuring IT equipment is reused or recycled responsibly, companies can reduce their environmental footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. Beyond compliance, this kind of action strengthens a business’s reputation as a responsible leader in the community.

What’s the Next Step?

Addressing these challenges doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A certified ITAD partner can help your business:

• Securely wipe or destroy sensitive data.
• Meet environmental regulations with responsible recycling practices.
• Recover value from old equipment through reuse or material recovery.

For businesses across South Dakota and North Dakota, SEAM offers a trusted solution. As the only certified ITAD provider in the state, we’re here to simplify the process, ensuring your data is protected, your compliance needs are met, and your equipment is handled sustainably.

To learn more or start a conversation, contact SEAM. It’s time to turn your IT challenges into peace of mind.

Levi Hentges is the Vice President/Business Development at SEAM. He helps clients build and manage their IT Asset Disposition (ITAD) programs to comply with legal, corporate and environmental requirements surrounding their technology devices; including asset recovery and resale, data destruction and secure electronics recycling.