How to choose an e-waste recycling company you can trust

The amount of e-waste that is produced on a daily basis is quite scary. Everything from smartphones to microwaves are being dumped in landfills around the world, especially in developing nations, and they are posing severe health risks, and that is without even mentioning the damage they are doing to the environment. This is why you are advised to hire an e-waste disposal company whenever you have any electronic or electrical items you need to get rid of, such as laptop disposal. This will also ensure that data is destroyed effectively too. With that being said, read on to discover the steps you should take when seeking an e-waste recycling company that you can trust.

Licensing – First and foremost, it is vital to choose an e-waste recycling company that has all of the necessary certificates and licenses. Some of the licenses you should be looking out for include the S2 License, the T11 License, and the Licensed Waste Carrier. The latter of which means the company is a licensed waste carrier and regulated by the Environmental Agency. Don’t hesitate to ask the company for their license number. The 22 License allows for the company to store general waste at a place where it was not produced while the T11 License enables companies to repair and refurbish according to WEEE Regulations (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment).

Compliance – This is an industry where compliance is of paramount importance. Unfortunately, when it comes to e-waste disposal, there are a lot of companies that are operating without being compliant. Ensuring the company has the right licenses is just one step in checking their compliance levels. You also need to ensure their systems and insurances are compliant and that they have the necessary accreditation.

Data destruction – It is vital to choose an e-waste company that offers data destruction as part of their service. This is imperative when it comes to storage media because someone else can easily get their hands on your confidential data if it has not been destroyed properly. This involves a lot more than erasing a hard drive or restoring your phone to factory settings.

Reputation – Aside from the points that have already been mentioned, you are advised to assess the company’s reputation in the industry. To do this, you should not only browse their website, but you should read the reviews that have been left by previous clients. What do they have to say about the service they received? Were they satisfied with it? Was their data destroyed? Did they find the company pleasant to work with? This is the best way to get an honest picture regarding the company. Remember, consider the reviews as a whole – don’t let one comment form your entire opinion.

Disposal method – Finally, one of the most critical factors to consider is the method they use to dispose of the electronic or electrical item in question. They should endeavour to use the most environmentally friendly methods at all times. The company should aim to reuse or recycle all equipment they receive. It is always good to try and find a company with their own in-house treatment facility.

The author has written and published articles on a wide range of topics including Small Business Advice, Tax and Accounting, Interior Design, House Renovation and Project Management.