Why businesses need to recycle their old IT kit

The team at Somerbys IT have been big on tech recycling for years, we even have our own hard drive crusher called ‘SID’! So, we thought we’d write a little blog on recycling your IT kit. As your company grows and evolves, it's natural to upgrade your IT gear to keep up with the times. But what do you do with all that outdated equipment collecting dust in storage? The answer is simple: recycle it! Not only is this a responsible and eco-friendly choice, but it can also benefit your business in various ways. Let's dive into why recycling your old IT kit is a no-brainer for businesses and how to make it happen.

• Be Kind to the Environment - One of the most significant reasons to recycle your old IT kit is to help protect our planet. By recycling, you're keeping toxic electronic waste (e-waste) out of landfills and ensuring valuable materials like metals, plastics, and glass can be reused. Plus, it's a fantastic way to show your customers and employees that your company cares about the environment.

• Save Money and Resources - Did you know that recycling can actually save your business money? Many electronic components can be repurposed or refurbished, reducing the need to purchase new equipment. Additionally, recycling old devices can cut down on disposal costs, as many recycling programs offer free or low-cost pick-up services for businesses.

• Data Security - When you recycle your old IT equipment, you're not just disposing of physical devices – you're also protecting your sensitive data. Don’t worry, working with Somerbys IT, we will ensure your old devices are wiped clean or destroyed according to data protection regulations, keeping your business and client information secure.

• Compliance with Regulations – In the UK we have established e-waste disposal regulations, and businesses are required to follow these rules. Recycling your old IT kit through certified recycling programs ensures you're in compliance with these regulations, avoiding potential fines or penalties.

• Enhance Your Brand Image - Embracing eco-friendly practices, like recycling old IT equipment, can boost your company's reputation. Customers and clients are increasingly drawn to businesses that prioritize sustainability and demonstrate corporate social responsibility. So, by recycling, you're not only doing the right thing, but you're also making your business more appealing.

Ready to start recycling your business's old IT equipment? Here's a quick guide to get you going:

• Inventory Your Old Tech - First, take stock of all the outdated IT equipment you have. This includes computers, servers, printers, monitors, keyboards, and any other electronic devices.

• Find a Certified IT Recycler - To ensure your devices are recycled safely and responsibly, it's essential to partner with a certified IT recycler. These recyclers adhere to strict standards for data security and environmental responsibility. If you’re struggling, contact Somerbys IT and we can help.

• Securely Erase Data - Before handing your devices over for recycling, make sure to securely erase any sensitive data they may contain. Don’t worry, Somerbys IT can help with this.

• Educate Your Employees - Get your team on board with recycling by educating them about the benefits and the process. Encourage them to participate in your company's recycling efforts and share their own ideas for becoming a greener business.

Recycling your business's old IT kit is an easy and effective way to show that you care about the environment, protect sensitive data, and even save some money. It's a win-win situation! By embracing responsible IT recycling practices, you're setting a positive example for your employees, customers, and the community at large.

If you need any help recycling your old IT kit, or even considering moving IT provider, we would love to chat and happy to give free helpful friendly advice, always striving to provide the best service we can. Please contact us and don’t forget to download our brochure, which tells you all about our services, support packages and some guidance on pricing.