The United States disposes of between 300 million and 400 million electronic devices annually, contributing about 12 percent of the world’s e-waste. Electronic waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the world and will continue to increase as technology rapidly evolves. E-waste disposal resources are in high demand, and ITAD facilities like HOBI are the primary disposal method for many companies. ITAD enterprises go beyond simple disposition and ensure clients get the most out of used IT equipment with value-added services like device reuse that maximize device value after retirement.
The Correlation Between Tech Advancements and E-Waste
Technological advancements are often exciting and bring the industry closer to futuristic technology, but they also drive the accumulation of e-waste. The double-edged sword of technology has been a long-standing issue with many benefits and drawbacks. The business world relies heavily on IT equipment such as phones, laptops, computers, desktops, and printers for communication and collaboration to ensure business runs smoothly. However, when it is time to retire the same equipment, disposition issues arise, and assets are often discarded in storage closets or thrown out with municipal waste and sent to landfills. With the rapid evolution of technology, new models of devices are released annually, prompting companies to upgrade their equipment almost as frequently. As a result, e-waste accumulates and has now become a global issue.
Device Reuse Reduces E-Waste and Prevents Pollution
Mobile devices are among the most utilized electronics in the world, and when they are not disposed of correctly, they can cause pollution and even be the source of large chemical fires. Many families own more than one phone, tablet, or iPad and upgrade their devices regularly, which causes an increased demand for brand-new devices on the market. Manufacturing new devices requires more raw materials, so some ITAD facilities offer mobile repair and reuse options.
Device reuse is a key factor in e-waste reduction and is becoming more popular as the price of electronics skyrockets. Millions of consumers use and discard mobile assets that are still functioning, wasting valuable resources and contributing to the global e-waste crisis. Reusing IT assets helps prevent them from entering the waste stream and extends their life spans. Companies that remarket or donate used IT assets provide a cost-effective alternative to purchasing brand-new devices for those without access, helping to create a used device sales channel. Purchasing used mobile devices helps reduce the need for more devices to be manufactured and, therefore, the amount of raw materials used.
ITAD Providers Maximize Value & Protect the Environment
When IT assets cannot be repaired for reuse, they are recycled efficiently, focusing on eliminating potential environmental liability. HOBI International, Inc. is a premier IT asset disposition company that provides a full range of ITAD services, including Mobile Lifecycle Management for Mobility Managed Services, with repair and resale options for mobile devices. HOBI focuses on maximizing economic return and prioritizes contributing to reducing the carbon footprint through reuse and e-recycling.
For more information about our ITAD services, call 877-814-2620 or contact us at sales@hobi.com.