Preparing your IT equipment for recycling

What types of business IT equipment can be recycled?

Computers, laptops, monitors, mobiles plus specialist sector specific electrical equipment can all be recycled. Generally, if it has a power cable or is battery charged almost 100% of components can be recycled. If you are unsure, contact a reputable IT recycling company like Zero Tech Waste. They’ll help you to check on what can be collected and avoid sending anything to landfill.

9 steps to prepare IT equipment for recycling

1: Re-use and disposals policy

A useful place to start to ensure your organisation has a re-use and disposals policy in place. It will define an asset life-span and the process for when those assets reach the end of their useful life. It will also set out key roles that are understood by everyone in the business.

2: Conduct an IT asset audit

Before recycling any equipment, take stock of all devices, including desktops, laptops, servers, networking hardware, and peripherals. Your asset audit can be held centrally to help manage asset replacement. It is also an important record of which assets contain sensitive data.

3: Back up your important data

If you need to securely erase data from your device, start by backing up any important information. Your employees may already have their data stored on cloud-based services or company servers, making this process relatively simple. But always check that they have the necessary login credentials for these services, so they can access data after the device has been wiped.

4: Securely wipe data

The easiest way to securely erase a device is by using the device’s built-in factory reset feature. The name may vary depending on the device, but look for Restore, Factory Reset or Erase All Content and Settings. These options will completely remove all data, including messages, contacts, and photos. Be sure to back up any important information beforehand. 

Data security is one of the biggest concerns when disposing of IT equipment, and simply deleting files is not enough to protect sensitive information. To permanently erase data in compliance with GDPR and UK data protection laws, consult your IT support team, who will use certified data erasure software or work with a trusted IT asset disposal provider. Partnering with IT recycling experts can significantly reduce the workload for your internal team.

• The ICO offer a useful guide on how to erase data on devices

5: Remove any SIM cards or memory cards from devices

SIM cards contain a mixture of plastics, precious and conductive metals, all of which can be recycled. Make sure you wipe any sensitive data contained and recycle along with your devices.

6: Remove any identifiable labels from devices

Remove company asset tags, barcodes, and any identifiable markings from devices to further protect business security. Don’t worry if you haven’t though, as your IT recycling partner will usually do this for you.

7: Collect all your devices together and store in a secure area

Some IT recycling partners can provide designated IT equipment recycling bins. These bins are a great place to store redundant assets until they are collected by your recycling partner. If not, identify an appropriate place internally where redundant assets won’t be confused with other equipment.

8: Choose a certified IT recycling partner

Partnering with an accredited IT recycling provider ensures compliance with UK laws and industry best practices. Your provider should have the necessary environmental licenses to carry and process IT waste. They should also be registered with the ICO to manage sensitive data securely. Reputable waste carriers will also follow guidance provided by data security bodies such as The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). Devices are usually sanitised before they are recycled by your recycling partner, but methods can vary. Check with individual processors for more information.

9: Ensure you have the necessary documentation

Maintain records of your IT disposal process, including asset tracking, certificates of data destruction, and compliance documents. This helps with audits and corporate sustainability reporting.

The ideal IT recycling partner for data disposal

Zero Tech Waste ticks all the boxes when it comes to responsible IT recycling. We’ll help you to wipe data from your old IT equipment as part of our recycling process. We make IT recycling simple and secure.

When you have as few as 10 qualifying items, we’ll swiftly collect all your WEEE recycling free of charge. We ensure 100% of the processed equipment is recycled, making us your trusted partner for sustainable IT disposal.