In a world where the average consumer electronic device lasts 1.5 years, we are now beginning to push the envelope regarding how we manage the retirement of electronics. Product lifecycles are increasing and costs for these items are reducing making them essentially “disposable.” The trouble is that disposable for many means just throwing it out. Consumers and organizations alike need to be more sensitive to the issues surrounding electronic waste.
The key elements are to realize there are options available but many are not convenient or free. So where do we draw the line? Whose responsibility is it, manufacturer, company, or consumer? Regulations are popping up everywhere regarding personal information however many organizations still do not take the warnings seriously that just because a computer is old, doesn’t mean it does not have sensitive information on it.
The time has now come for electronics to be considered a dangerous hazardous waste, not just parts or certain components such as monitors, but all electronics. There needs to be a comprehensive educational process started the same as in conserving energy that if we do not begin to take heed of the potential risks to our water supplies, land fills, or soil, that we will contaminate ourselves and future generations.
The Apple IPhone is a marvel for the electronics world to comprehend; competitors are now ramping up their own versions to compete. It will be a marketshare rush for the cell phone to eventually replace all other types of computer equipment.
Microsoft’s Vista Operating System will eventually become the dominant OS for the next generations of computer equipment. Currently 80% of all computers currently in use cannot work with the OS. Within 2 years, Microsoft will without a doubt push customers into this new OS which has been several years in the making. This will begin a refresh cycle for hardware that will be unprecedented not seen since the dot com era.
Organizations need to be sensitive to the types of companies that are willing to take their electronic waste for no cost. There is an old saying, “You get what you pay for.” Remember the liability for an electronic waste item is growing and without proper documentation, transfer of ownership and indemnification, the owning organization of that piece of equipment is still responsible. Some manufacturers are now offering a free take back program, and this should be applauded however their real incentive is for you to purchase a new system from them.
This is an opportunity for everyone to take responsibility and make a contribution to this effort. Remember we can all make a difference if we change our habits and thought process.
Mr. Bernstein is a Founder, President, and CEO of AIT Incorporated. He established the creation of customized Information Technology Asset Management Programs for both Government & Private Sector clients that facilitate the disposition/retirement services as a bundled integration solution allowing for complete-end-to-end technology lifecycle services practice. Mr. Bernstein has created an industry standard utilizing learned best practices in Information Technology Asset Management, Disposition and Disposal services to protect customer data security and environmental liability for both public and private sector marketplaces. Mr. Bernstein was awarded the first General Services Administration Schedule for IT Asset Management/Disposition Services under Schedule 70 - IT Professional Services and has personally received Congressional Recommendations. Additionally, Mr. Bernstein has served on the Board of Directors for The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) comprised of over 20,000 members from the Information Technology reseller and consulting community.
Tags: computers, disposal, donation, ewaste, recycling, remarketing
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