News in the Channel - issue #20

DATA DESTRUCTION

needed is key, especially if the service is genuinely ‘end-to-end’. “Redundant, unwanted technology from these overhauls should never end up in landfill by default. It shouldn’t even be stored in a cupboard to be dealt with on another day. While destroying the data is essential from a compliance perspective, tonnes of recyclate value remains ‘locked’ inside these devices. And, by partnering with a trusted WEEE specialist, resellers can help reap all the benefits. “While some operators concentrate on mechanical breakdown methods – in other words, taking laptops and other appliances apart by hand – this is typically time-, labour- and cost-intensive. Others opt for methods such as degaussing or single-shaft shredding, but these methods equally come with their challenges. “Slow speed, high-torque shredding is the quicker, more efficient and effective method for shredding WEEE. Resellers can give their customers utmost peace of mind that sensitive information will never end up in the wrong hands, while safeguarding the resource value of the product itself. “Our shredders liberate the multiple component materials that would otherwise remain ‘locked’ inside. Once they’re shredded down to a smaller fraction size, they can be segregated with ease, which means plastics and different types of high-value metals can then be separated for resale and recycling – feeding the circular economy, while introducing an additional revenue stream for resellers.” Ross Gentle, sales manager at Ultratec Ltd, adds that there is demand for second-hand items too. “There is a substantial aftermarket for reused hard drives and SSDs due to the increasing demand for cost-effective and eco- friendly storage solutions,” he says. “If a device cannot undergo data erasure due to faults or inoperability, it should always be physically destroyed. Even non-functioning devices can contain recoverable data in a forensic lab. “MSPs and other organisations in the

channel should take advantage of opportunity in the market by offering data destruction services to their end-user clients. Collaborating with a reputable company like Ultratec is an effective way to capitalise on this.” WEEE considerations Marcus agrees that with the WEEE directive, the re-use of devices should be a primary focus. “An unwanted piece of equipment can go on to have a useful life elsewhere – providing there will be no data compromise, i.e. if the data is wiped. If it is not economically viable to refurbish and reuse the WEEE, the recycling of the devices – and as many component parts as possible – is the next most critical route,” he says. “The material recycling of any metals or plastics requires an efficient shredding technology that can recover as much as possible out of the accumulated electronic scrap.” Jim adds that the environmental consequences of data destruction are only negative if organisations prioritise physical device destruction methods. “The Environment Agency’s WEEE compliant disposal guidelines aim to mitigate these impacts by ensuring safe and responsible recycling of electronic devices,” he adds. “Data erasure supports a more sustainable approach by allowing devices to be securely wiped of all information before being refurbished and reused. This aligns with circular economy principles, reducing the environmental footprint of the IT industry while addressing data security and compliance concerns.” Richard adds that finding a provider that can offer the right methods of data destruction as well as great service is the key. “At SATCoL, our focus is on reuse, to ensure that every device sees out at least its useful life and helps those who are excluded from the digital world,” he says. “This may be because they don’t have access to a device, have no way to connect to the internet or simply don’t have the skills and confidence to use them. “We prefer software driven data destruction to support our partners. They can trust that the data has been removed securely and the device is reusable. We safely destroy the data bearing element as a preferred method, rather than degaussing. “The reuse of IT devices not only makes them more accessible to those who need it most but also helps to sustain the planet by reducing waste.”

Marcus Brew managing director

untha.co.uk

“

An unwanted piece of equipment can go on to have

a useful life elsewhere -

providing there will be no data compromise.

”

ultratec.co.uk