The expensive myth of IT disposal
When it comes to disused IT hardware, many companies immediately think of high disposal and recycling costs. But that doesn't have to be the case! In fact, modern approaches to IT recycling not only offer a cost-efficient alternative, but also potential for sustainability and even new sources of income. Did you know that in Germany alone, millions of unused appliances gather dust in storage every year, even though they still contain valuable resources?
It's time to take a look at the smarter and more sustainable alternatives - and thus fully exploit the potential of your old IT.
1. IT remarketing: Turning old into gold
What is IT remarketing?
IT remarketing refers to the process of refurbishing used hardware and bringing it back onto the market. Companies can not only pass on their old devices in a sensible way, but also earn cash.
Advantages:
- Cost savings: Devices that are sold often refinance new investments.
- Sustainability: Used IT continues to be used instead of being disposed of.
- Marketability: Notebooks, servers and smartphones are still in demand after 2-3 years.
Example:
A medium-sized company in Munich decided to sell 500 laptops through a remarketing partner at the end of the leasing period. The result: a profit of over 50,000 euros and CO₂ savings through extended lifecycles.
2. certified data erasure: security without compromise
Why is data erasure important?
Many companies are reluctant to sell IT devices for fear of data breaches. However, modern tools and services guarantee 100% secure and BSI-compliant data erasure.
The most important methods:
- Software-based deletion: Certified programs overwrite all data multiple times.
- Physical destruction: Hard disks are mechanically destroyed if they cannot be reused.
A partner who offers these services also often takes care of the entire logistics - from collection to documentation.
3. recycling: when appliances are at the end of their life
Even appliances that are no longer functional often have a residual value. Valuable raw materials such as copper, gold and rare earths can be recycled and reused.
Innovative approaches:
- Urban Mining: Old hardware is seen as a source of raw materials.
- Automated recycling centers: Machines sort materials faster and more efficiently.
Recycling not only reduces electronic waste, but also minimizes dependence on newly mined resources. This saves energy and protects the environment.
4. lifecycle management: prevention instead of repair
The best costs are not incurred in the first place. Companies that rely on well thought-out IT lifecycle management extend the service life of their devices right from the start.
Best Practices:
- Regular maintenance: Software updates and hardware upgrades prevent premature failures.
- Refurbishing: Older appliances are refurbished and reused internally.
- Planning: Predictive management allows device fleets to be optimally utilized.
Conclusion: Your old IT is more valuable than you think
Instead of disposing of old devices at great expense, companies can achieve sustainable and economic benefits with modern approaches such as remarketing, certified data erasure and recycling. At the same time, they make an important contribution to reducing electronic waste.
Act now! Start with an audit of your IT assets and see how you can benefit from the new approach to IT recovery. For more information on secure and efficient IT recovery strategies, see here.
