Data centers are the central hub for information for any enterprise, but decommissioning can be detrimental to the environment if disposed of irresponsibly. Because of their size, data centers are not often viewed like other IT assets such as phones, laptops, printers, scanners, tablets, and desktops, and are often not considered in disposition plans. However, in a digital era, data centers are abundant and pose a significant environmental threat, as large amounts of e-waste are available. Partnering with an ITAD provider for data center services will help implement sustainability in the workplace.
The Global Digital Increase
The evolution of technology has produced a digital age in which the vast majority of the world’s information is stored digitally. In 2020, the total global amount of data created, captured, copied, and consumed reached 64.2 zettabytes (ZB). In 2024, this number more than doubled to 147 ZB, and is projected to reach 181 ZB this year. The increased adoption of electronic devices and the utilization of the internet have created a high turnover rate for used electronics, resulting in staggering amounts of global e-waste. The rapid growth is due to the high demand for mobile devices during the COVID-19 pandemic, when more people began to work and learn from home and utilize mobile devices for entertainment more frequently. Global data creation is projected to grow to more than 394 ZB over the next five years, through 2028.
Environmental Factors of E-Waste Disposition
As a result of the influx of digital devices, the need for data centers grew exponentially, contributing to the global e-waste crisis. E-waste is classified as toxic and cannot be disposed of by typical means. Electronics contain metals that produce toxic chemicals that will soak into the soil and pollute the groundwater if sent to landfills. They also contain Lithium-Ion batteries, which can overheat and spark thermal runaways when damaged, leading to large chemical fires. Incineration is a popular alternative to landfills, but it will release these chemicals into the air and result in pollution. The only way to dispose of electronics while mitigating environmental impact is recycling.
Data Center Services with ITAD
IT asset disposition (ITAD) enterprises like HOBI International Inc. partner with companies and dispose of all forms of e-waste, including data centers. ITAD providers go beyond simple disposition with services such as data erasure, asset repair, remarketing, and reverse logistics. HOBI offers a range of data center solutions, including onsite data destruction, decommissioning, relocation, asset management, and compliance.
Partnering with an ITAD provider helps implement sustainable practices with an environmentally sound disposition plan. HOBI is an R2v3, RIOS, and ISO 14001 certified IT asset management enterprise with more than 30 years of experience in the waste industry.
For more information about our data center services or our other ITAD services, call 817-814-2620 or contact HOBI at sales@hobi.com.