“The Queen of E-Waste.” That’s probably not the title I aspired to as a little girl, but it’s the self-title I now happily and readily embrace. As Director of Business Development at NexTech, a Pearl-based Information Technology /E-waste Recovery and Disposal Services company, I work with corporate clients to help them properly dispose of their E-waste, and I also help raise awareness within the community about the ever-growing problem of E-waste.
“What exactly is E-waste?”
E-waste is old, outdated, no-longer-used electronics and IT equipment– anything with a battery or plug – that is obsolete and bound to be discarded. E-waste statistics are staggering if not sickening. Global E-waste amasses 60 million tons each year – a figure that increases exponentially with rapid technology innovations and introduction of new devices. Guilty are we with each adoption of new technology; we are the creators of E-waste both at work and at home. It’s a complex problem with numerous issues and regulations surrounding disposal, including sensitive data that remains on hard drives, as well as the materials that are contained in devices, both valuable materials and harmful materials.
The E-waste solution
Until the world of technology becomes fully circular (meaning that all products are reused in next generation products with no new materials entering the manufacturing process because all materials being regenerated), NexTech’s mission is to create E-waste solutions while alleviating the serious concerns of data security and environmental impact. Data security is a primary focus, as data breaches cause companies extreme financial and reputational loss. From an environmental standpoint, E-waste is harmful if not properly disposed of and can release toxins into the air, ground, and waterways, again resulting in financial and reputational loss to companies, and even more detrimental, causing permanent damage to the environment. Additionally, precious metals that are mined may be recovered and harvested. “I see my role as the combination of love and respect for our environment, offering a valuable business proposition that supports sustainability initiatives, and the desire for purpose and positive impact. Along with that, we, all of us at NexTech, see it as our mission to provide our community and our clients’ communities with education about the E-waste problem and the power to do something about it.”
E-Waste Collection Events
That’s the reason why NexTech embarked on local “E-Waste Collection” events where residents can bring their E-waste for disposal and know that their data will be destroyed with a Zero-landfill guarantee. Locally, in conjunction with Renaissance at Colony Park, NexTech has been able to serve the metro area with multiple E-waste collection events held throughout the year. These events usually highlight a related, observed day, such as International E-Waste Day, Earth Day, or American Recycles Day.
Confirmation of the need and appreciation by the community is confirmed by the huge turnout and sheer tonnage of equipment collected. NexTech has plans to expand the events not only through our state but throughout the southeast. “It’s an important message to share,” said Brad Cohen, CEO of NexTech. “The fact that we can do something to protect the environment and protect companies is a job we take seriously and one we wholeheartedly embrace.”
So, empty out those junk drawers and dusty boxes full of E-waste and take them to the next E-waste Collection Event on November 15th at Renaissance at Colony Park where they can be disposed of securely and sustainably. And, if you or your business is interested in helping your community by holding an E-waste collection event, call The Queen of E-Waste to discuss – Beth Savage Zito, 980-257-2760. You can also visit www.nextechpartners.-com to find out more about E-waste.
