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 a long period of time. Electronics hibernation ultimately leaves a barrier for 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 essentially is 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, and it can be because of upgrades in equipment, remote work changes, uncertainty about disposal, or concerns over data security, which can cause a company to do 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 a problem 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, have value within them that can be used. If you are not recycling and reusing these devices, then 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 on the shelves unused, the less it’s worth. Not taking advantage of ITAD can mean that you are missing out on resale values or reuse of the electronic device.
Doesn’t Support Circular Economy
One of the benefits of using an ITAD service is that it promotes a circular economy, meaning that they are being used for as long as possible by being resold or reused in other ways. However, if you’re using electronic hibernation, then these devices are simply just sitting on a shelf, not getting the most out of their lifetime, which is not encouraging a circular economy.
Contributing to E-Waste
Most of the devices that go through electronic hibernation eventually will end up in a landfill, contributing to e-waste. One of the biggest missions for 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 a landfill earlier than they would have if they went through an ITAD process.
Inefficient Operations and Storage
Unused devices being kept in storage can take up a lot of space, especially if they are larger electronics. Ultimately, this isn’t very efficient, and that space that’s being taken up by unused devices could be used for something else. Not only this, but those assets that are taking up storage space still have value if they are resold properly, but this won’t be taken advantage of if they are sitting on a shelf due to electronic hibernation.
Potential Data Risks
Even though these devices aren’t being used anymore, there is still a huge risk for data breaches or information getting into the wrong hands. If these devices are not properly cleared and disposed of, then this can mean that there are more chances of someone getting access to them and obtaining sensitive information.
How Can ITAD Help?
ITAD, or IT asset disposal, is a method of electronic disposal that can ensure the information on these devices is cleared fully and that the device can retain some sort of value by being reused, or it will be destroyed properly. Let’s look at what role ITAD plays in this and how it can be a solution to help with the challenges brought on by electronic hibernation.
Refurbishment and Resale of Products
ITAD allows for unused devices to be refurbished and resold, so that you can retain some of the value that is still left in the electronic devices. There are many other industries that may find use in these devices, even if yours doesn’t anymore. In fact, ITAD companies typically will partner with certain industries to provide them with electronic devices that no longer serve a useful purpose to you, so that you can make some money back on the asset and not have to keep it in storage.
Proper Data Clearing
Data breaches can be a huge issue, and they can be devastating to a company that may experience one. With that being said, ITAD companies will properly clear and destroy all sensitive data that is left on an electronic device. This ensures that in any part of the ITAD process, there is no potential risk of someone gaining access to sensitive information that they should not have. ITAD also ensures that the information is cleared in compliance with HIPAA, GDPR, and many other regulators.
Promoting Circular Economy
With the process of refurbishing, recycling, or reusing these unused devices, this helps to promote a circular economy. Getting the most life out of these devices is important, and ITAD companies play a huge role in that. They are making a giant environmental impact by avoiding e-waste.
Auditing and Tracking
ITAD companies will audit and track all of the devices that have been refurbished, recycled, or destroyed. With IT devices, there are many regulations that need to be met, which is why having the auditing and tracking systems in place is important. Many times, a regulator may ask for proof of proper IT disposal, and having these tracked makes things much easier. Also, if there is ever an issue with a data breach or some other type of similar situation, then having the tracking and audits allows you to vouch for the system that you have in place for ITAD.
Implement ITAD Systems into Your Business Today
ITAD solutions are a great way to keep track of things and allow for there to be a record of the type of disposal and recycling that you are doing. Electronic hibernation does not have many benefits, and continuing to use that method can mean that you are losing money, contributing to e-waste, and leaving 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, eliminating e-waste, and contributing to a circular environment. Want to know more about ITAD and how it can benefit you and your organization? Check out ITAD Daily to get all of the updates on ITAD.
