IT recycling is an unfamiliar concept for many people in the UK and around the world. When it comes to sustainability, people know about plastic recycling, but reuse of electronic products and computers is still something that sounds alien to millions of people.
45% of UK youth admit that they have never recycled their mobile phones.
Since it is something new, even those who do it make some grave mistakes. In this blog post, we will cover the most common mistakes of laptop recycling. Make sure you avoid them when you recycle laptops or before you hire a laptop recycling UK company.
Mistake 1: Failing to back up data
Importance of back up
Just because your laptop is no longer usable does not mean the data is also no longer required. Even if you have used it for a few months, there could be important files you must not forget to store. They could be photos, videos, audios, power point presentations, PDF docs, etc. To avoid any precious data loss, back up is more than just important.
Many people forget to save data elsewhere before recycling their laptop. You can either save the data in an external hard drive, in a USB drive, or on the Cloud. It is also possible to use CDs or DVDs, but that’s quite old-fashioned now.
Make sure to traverse all hard drive. There could be important data everywhere. For example, many people forget folders like ‘Downloads’, and ‘Documents’. Also, some people do not check all user accounts. Make sure you do all of this when you recycle your laptop.
It would be a good choice to factory-reset your computer. Speaking theoretically, then all left on your computer is the bare operating system and pre-installed programs on the device – removing access to your files and any programs you’ve added.
Mistake 2: Not erasing personal data
Data security risks
Saving the data ensures you can access your data after recycling. But you also have to ensure that no one else can access your data. Data becoming inaccessible for you, and data becoming accessible for unauthorised people are equally terrible situations.
You have to take steps to prevent them both.
Even after factory reset, people can use special software tools and retrieve your private data. Sometimes we send our laptops for recycling without understanding the data security risks.
Scrapped laptops can end up being recycled anywhere. In most cases, they strip out the components to extract valuable metals. However, extraction of sensitive data at this point is also totally possible. As stated earlier, it is possible even if you have done factory reset.
You can either use data shredding software or hire the IT disposal company that also offers data destruction services along with a proof of destruction.
Keep in mind that you have to sign out of all your accounts when you are sending your laptop to the recycling company. Sign out of all accounts like Gmail, Microsoft, iCloud, etc.
Mistake 3: Choosing an unverified recycling service
Most dangerous and sadly, one of the most common mistakes is not paying attention to this sensitive area. Even if it takes longer, you should complete your due diligence to make sure you select the right recycling partner. There are many risks that come with the wrong selection. Let us discuss a few risks of finalising the contract with unverified service.
Potential scams
Yes, you are at risk of scam when you go with the unverified recycling service. Also, you cannot blame anyone for your own mistake. Expect little legal help if you make the mistake of giving the project to a non-verified company.
Environmental impact
One of the prime purposes of recycling is to preserve the environment. Unverified services may use recycling methods that are unhealthy for the environment.
Mistake 4: Ignoring trade-in and resale options
There are a number of ways you can recycle your laptop through retailers. Companies like Apple and Dell give this remarkable opportunity to their customers. You can use Apple’s Trade-in services and Curry’s recycling service.
You can send your Dell, HP, or Asus laptop to any local collection point. It is not mandatory to buy from and recycle at the same point.
Apple gives an exciting recycling scheme to its customers. You can earn money back on your old device to spend on a new Apple product.
Curry also offers remarkable recycling programs. They will even evaluate your device online and tell you the estimated trade-in price for your old tech. Show the screenshot or the print-out at the local Curry’s store and receive the money.
Mistake 5: Recycling laptops with batteries installed
You must not leave the battery inside the laptop while recycling. Batteries are hazardous and they require special handling.
Their processing is not like the processing of the other equipment. However, it is not to say that recycling batteries is impossible. Batteries are 100% recyclable and disposable. An individual must remove the battery from the laptop, where possible, before sending it to the recycling centre. Although responsible recycling companies do not make such mistakes, it is better that an individual takes this step.
Mistake 6: Not researching local recycling policies
It is 100% possible that different councils have different rules and regulations for e-waste recycling. Many people do not bother educating themselves about the policies of their council and country. If you do not comply, you may have to bear legal consequences like a heavy fine. Laptop disposal UK also has its rules and regulations. E-waste disposal regulations in the UK are stringent and heavily enforced.
So, before laptop recycling go to the official website of your city or council. Make sure you understand the local legal landscape.
Conclusion
Sustainability is a global cause, and all of us have to play our part. So, recycle laptops and all your electronics to fulfil your responsibility towards sustainability. Make sure you back up data, erase your hard drive’s data permanently, and follow your local rules and regulations.
Also, make sure you partner with a reputable and certified recycling company. Computer IT Disposals is one of the best options in the UK.
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