Facing the rising tide of electronic waste and IT disposition, today’s IT asset managers want proof that their retired technology assets have been disposed of correctly.
In 2019, the world generated a record 53.6 million tons of electronic waste—reflecting an increase of 21% in just five years. Tackling this growing challenge has become a top priority for leaders of technology companies, such as cloud providers and original equipment manufacturers.
The sustainable lifecycle management of electronic equipment presents unique challenges. Hazardous chemicals like lead and cadmium are harmful to both the environment and human health. One recent study by the World Health Organization linked digital dumpsites to adverse health outcomes in children.
Information security is another concern. Retired IT assets may contain sensitive data that, if not properly deleted, can be exploited. For example, degaussing a hard drive destroys data but prevents reuse. In contrast, secure erasure according to the NIST 800-88 standard ensures irrecoverable data removal while preserving hardware for reuse.
SK Tes provides end-to-end management throughout the technology lifecycle. Our Seattle-based facility recently earned R2v3 certification, reinforcing our leadership in sustainable ITAD practices. We operate nearly twice the number of R2-certified sites than any other provider.
What is the R2 certification?
The Responsible Recycling (R2) Standard, maintained by SERI, is a globally recognized electronics recycling standard based on independent audits. The third edition, R2v3, emphasizes data protection and environmental compliance.
The revised standard enhances guidance for implementation and strengthens alignment with global regulations such as GDPR and the Basel Convention.
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"The regulatory environment in the last five years has probably had more movement than the previous fifteen years before that, both in terms of global regulations, the Basel Convention, regional regulations, GDPR, local in-country regulations... it’s all interconnected."
Eric Ingebretsen, Chief Commercial Officer, SK Tes
Why partner with an R2v3-certified ITAD company?
R2v3 certification validates an ITAD provider’s commitment to sustainability, compliance, and security. Reasons to partner with an R2v3-certified company include:
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To reduce risks to public health and the environment
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To align ITAD with local and international regulations
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To eliminate the risk of end-of-life data leaks
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To support sustainable reuse of retired IT equipment
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To instill confidence across your supply chain and customers
R2-certified facilities must document process requirements, strategies, and security measures, and undergo regular training and audits. Certification is granted only after an audit by a SERI-approved body.
Choose SK Tes as your secure ITAD service partner. We lead the industry in earning R2v3 certification and are committed to proper IT asset management aligned with today’s highest standards.
Get in touch to learn more.
