How Can I Be More Sustainable with Technology?

The best way to be more sustainable with technology is to repair rather than replace hardware wherever possible, and to choose refurbished when an upgrade is required. Software is also available that can help accurately monitor energy usage to help make educated decisions around your IT infrastructure.

Why is Sustainability Important When it Comes to Technology?

For years now, we have been told about the importance of sustainability. We know to recycle our waste, turn lights off when we leave a room and donate clothes we no longer wear. Of course, these are all important, but one area that is often overlooked is sustainability regarding technology. It’s not uncommon for households to have a drawer full of old phones and wires or a cupboard of outdated electronics. For businesses, it is often no different. If the average person doesn’t know how to responsibly dispose of one laptop, how is a business supposed get rid of a hundred?

This is not a harmless concern either. E-waste is the fastest growing solid waste stream in the world, and an increasing reliance on electrical hardware and ‘fast tech’ is eating through the Earth’s supply of critical raw materials. Fortunately, there is a straightforward solution to this issue: repair, refurb, reuse and recycle.

Is Refurbished Hardware Right for Me?

Our answer is almost always the same: yes. As long as you purchase from a reputable, trusted, refurbished technology supplier (like Techbuyer) then you can expect refurbished hardware to perform to the same level as new. Buying from a company like Techbuyer also comes with the benefit of competitive pricing. From our own research, refurbished hardware can offer cost savings as much as 70% compared to new.

Additionally, even if something does go wrong with your refurbished hardware, there is no need to worry. Extended warranties are commonly available with refurbished hardware to give you that extra piece of mind.

What Do I Do with Redundant IT Hardware?

1. Check to See if the Hardware can be Repaired

We would always encourage you to keep the hardware you have in use for as long as possible. This can be done by making small repairs or upgrades when required, rather than replacing entire devices. This is both a more sustainable and cost-effective option than replacement.

2. Reselling Hardware and Donations

If you have outgrown your existing technology, then you can look to either sell or donate it. Selling your equipment for refurbishment helps to extend its lifecycle while you earn some extra money. This not only assists with investment in future infrastructure requirements but also with supporting the circular economy.

Donations offer similar benefits, but with the added bonus of also supporting those who need it most. Who you donate to is entirely up to you, but we recommend looking into charitable organisations that regularly accept donations of electronics.

3. E-Waste Recycling Through Resource Recovery

Donations or straightforward resale are only options if the equipment is still operational. If it is completely redundant, then the best option is to responsibly dispose of it. The key to responsible recycling is to find a reputable business, and the best way to identify that is through accreditations and certifications. The correct certifications show that a business practices ethical recycling with full transparency.

The benefits of responsible recycling are not only environmental. Depending on your equipment, you could receive compensation for your redundant equipment, and many e-waste recyclers are happy to purchase both high quantity and high-quality stock.

E-waste recycling also contributes to the circular economy as it allows the precious metals found within to be reused. Many reputable recyclers, such as Techbuyer, will have a zero-to-landfill policy. This is a self-explanatory policy but often means that these recyclers will have partners on the cutting edge of technology as they aim to maximise yield from e-waste.

What’s My Next Step?

If either refurbished hardware or responsible IT disposal sounds like something that could be of interest to you, you’re in the right place! Techbuyer has over 20 years of experience in refurbished IT and our team of experts can guide you to the perfect solution for your needs. Additionally, our Resource Recovery team are able to handle any redundant IT hardware while ensuring it goes to one of our trusted partners.