Electronics hibernation is a problem that we continue to see in the tech world, but ITAD is a much better solution than just “retiring” these devices and allowing them to sit on shelves for long periods of time. Electronics hibernation ultimately creates a barrier to proper electronic disposal, which is what ITAD is trying to solve. We’re going to look more into what electronics hibernation is and how ITAD can help.
What Exactly is Electronics Hibernation?
Electronics hibernation is essentially the storage of unused electronics. Instead of recycling or disposing of them, they are cleared and then “shelved.” This is a tactic that’s used in many cases, often due to equipment upgrades, remote work changes, uncertainty about disposal, or concerns over data security — all of which can cause a company to choose electronic hibernation instead of typical ITAD services.
Why is Electronic Hibernation a Problem?
There are many reasons why electronic hibernation can be a problem and why we would recommend ITAD instead. Here are some of the reasons why this method is problematic and why you should consider ITAD services instead of electronic hibernation.
Financial Loss or Reduced Asset Value
Electronics, even though they are no longer in use, still have value that can be recovered. If you are not recycling or reusing these devices, they are just sitting on a shelf, losing value, and you are not getting anything out of the asset. In fact, the longer a device sits unused, the less it’s worth. Not taking advantage of ITAD can mean missing out on resale value or reuse opportunities.
Doesn’t Support Circular Economy
One of the benefits of using an ITAD service is that it promotes a circular economy, meaning devices are used for as long as possible by being resold or reused in other ways. However, with electronic hibernation, these devices simply sit on a shelf, not getting the most out of their lifespan, which does not encourage a circular economy.
Contributing to E-Waste
Most devices that go through electronic hibernation eventually end up in a landfill, contributing to e-waste. One of the biggest missions of ITAD is to eliminate as much e-waste as possible by reusing or properly disposing of these devices. Typically, electronics that are hibernated will end up in landfills sooner than they would have if they had gone through an ITAD process.
Inefficient Operations and Storage
Unused devices kept in storage can take up a lot of space, especially larger electronics. This isn’t very efficient, and the space taken up by unused devices could be used for something else. Additionally, those assets still have value if resold properly — but that value won’t be recovered if they’re sitting on a shelf due to electronic hibernation.
Potential Data Risks
Even though these devices aren’t being used anymore, there is still a major risk of data breaches or information getting into the wrong hands. If these devices are not properly cleared and disposed of, there’s a higher chance of someone gaining access to sensitive information.
How Can ITAD Help?
ITAD, or IT asset disposal, is a method of electronic disposal that ensures the information on these devices is fully cleared and that the device retains value through reuse or is destroyed properly. Let’s look at the role ITAD plays in solving the challenges brought on by electronic hibernation.
Refurbishment and Resale of Products
ITAD allows unused devices to be refurbished and resold so that you can retain some of the value still left in the electronics. Many other industries may find use for these devices even if yours doesn’t anymore. In fact, ITAD companies often partner with certain industries to provide them with devices that no longer serve your needs, allowing you to make some money back on the asset and avoid unnecessary storage.
Proper Data Clearing
Data breaches can be devastating to a company. With that being said, ITAD companies properly clear and destroy all sensitive data left on electronic devices. This ensures that at no point in the ITAD process is there any risk of someone gaining access to sensitive information. ITAD also ensures that data is cleared in compliance with HIPAA, GDPR, and other regulatory standards.
Promoting Circular Economy
Through refurbishing, recycling, and reusing unused devices, ITAD helps promote a circular economy. Getting the most life out of these devices is important, and ITAD companies play a huge role in that, making a major environmental impact by reducing e-waste.
Auditing and Tracking
ITAD companies audit and track all devices that have been refurbished, recycled, or destroyed. With IT devices, there are many regulations that must be met, which is why having auditing and tracking systems in place is important. Regulators may ask for proof of proper IT disposal, and having these records makes compliance easier. If there is ever a data breach or similar issue, the tracking and audit records allow you to verify the ITAD systems you have in place.
Implement ITAD Systems into Your Business Today
ITAD solutions are a great way to keep track of your devices and maintain a record of disposal and recycling. Electronic hibernation does not offer many benefits, and continuing to use that method means you’re losing money, contributing to e-waste, and increasing the potential for data breaches. With proper ITAD, there is a system in place for your electronics once you no longer use them, which is beneficial for your business across the board — from data security, auditing, and tracking to eliminating e-waste and supporting a circular economy. Want to know more about ITAD and how it can benefit your organization? Check out ITAD Daily to get all the updates on ITAD.
