DATA DESTRUCTION
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issues,” he says. “Demand for effective data erasure solutions is rising, with standards like IEEE 2883 favouring software-based data sanitisation over physical destruction due to security and sustainability concerns. “We found that 96% of enterprises are aware of the environmental impact of their data footprint, with 62% having defined and implemented a plan to reduce it. Enterprises are also extending device lifespans through redeployment, data wiping and donation programs rather than immediate recycling.” Waste concerns With environmental concerns growing, processing materials from the data destruction process is also becoming increasingly important: Marcus says that e-waste is a “colossal” problem. “There is an estimated two million tonnes of WEEE produced and discarded by UK households and companies every year,” he says. “It’s even dubbed the fastest-growing solid waste stream in the world. Yet recycling rates remain staggeringly poor. “Given the number of high-value materials that commonly reside within every redundant piece of kit, these are difficult statistics to comprehend. However, with stringent regulations governing the protection of sensitive data – including prosecution and unlimited fines from a magistrates court or Crown Court – some businesses consider it ‘safer’ to simply leave the redundant equipment to gather dust, rather than process it for reuse or recycling.” Marcus adds that many companies still don’t understand what is possible. “As well as restricting environmental progress, this means so many firms are either non-compliant or missing out on significant bottom line benefits,” he says. “For example, WEEE specialists – approved authorised treatment facilities (AATFs) – can compliantly destroy data on a device, refurbishing assets where required for reuse elsewhere. “And if a piece of kit has reached the end of its useful life, the AATF will ensure the responsible recycling of this ‘waste’. Shredding the equipment to liberate the valuable materials that could otherwise remain ‘locked’ inside, means the maximum amount of materials can be resold for reinsertion into the supply chain – for environmental and financial benefit. After all, there’s wealth in ‘waste’. “Of course, secure data destruction doesn’t just refer to tech waste. Materials including sensitive paper documentation, electronic files
and even postal return labels on ecommerce retailers’ products constitute confidential waste that needs to be securely handled and destroyed to prevent the breach of data, and any consequential financial and/or reputational risks associated with non-compliance. But the scale of the WEEE problem shows a crucial area of focus, with plenty of opportunities on the table for resellers.” Opportunity for MSPs Indeed, data destruction provides many opportunities for MSPs and resellers. Jim says data destruction has a place throughout every element of the channel. “Vendors are crucial in promoting sustainable IT by developing products with longer lifespans and recyclable components, as well as educating their customers and partners on responsible e-waste disposal,” he says. “Distributors can support this by offering e-waste collection points, collaborating with certified recycling facilities, and prioritising environmentally responsible products. “MSPs have an opportunity to offer data management services and encourage eco- friendly IT practices to enhance sustainability and compliance. By providing secure data erasure solutions, MSPs can help their customers meet compliance requirements, reduce data breach risks and enhance their overall data management strategy. This service can differentiate MSPs in a competitive market that’s increasingly focused on becoming ‘greener’, as well as help them build long-term client relationships.” Marcus adds that we live in an era of constant innovation. “This means the desire for ‘new’ is therefore unlikely to subside, and the volume of WEEE will also remain high,” he says. “Fast tech is a topic increasingly debated, which leaves us with a challenge to solve. But we must solve this challenge together. It’s great news for resellers with TaaS offerings – they have a guaranteed revenue stream fuelled by this demand. However, ensuring goods are compliantly and sustainably handled when they’re no longer
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Failing to dispose of data properly can lead to substantial fines from the Information Commissioner's
Office and significant damage to a company's reputation.
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Steve Rains managing director
gentronicssolutions.com
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