ITC charity Computer Aid International has launched a new guide to help companies make sure their e-waste is really recycled properly, and at the same time guard against data theft.
Computer Aid claims thousands of containers of e-waste are dumped in developing countries, often by disposal companies claiming they will recycle the waste. When PCs and laptops are concerned there is also a risk of unscrupulous companies accessing corporate data still on the hard drives.
Tony Roberts, CEO and founder of Computer Aid, said: “UK companies are unwittingly handing over their unwanted IT equipment to unscrupulous illegal traders who are shipping untested and un-wiped e-waste, for profit, to developing countries.
“Companies can easily help put a stop to this toxic trade by asking some simple questions of IT disposal organizations to guarantee they select a reputable partner. In doing so, they can protect their brand reputation and guarantee legal compliance with environmental and data protection legislation”
Computer Aid International works with non-profit organizations to provide refurbished ITC equipment for developing countries, and have supplied over 150,000 PCs to more than 100 countries in Africa and South America.
The guide can be viewed online at: http://www.computeraid.org/uploads/guide.pdf
Computer Aid has also been nominated asRecycling Scheme of the Year by readers of Green IT Magazine. The Green ITAwards will take place on Earth Day, 22 April.
Voting is open until 12 April, and you canvote by visiting http://www.greenitawards.com/