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Overview
The increasing amount of electronic waste (ewaste) generated in the current digital age, along with environmental and human health impacts that can result from dumping or improper recycling of electronic equipment, is a major worldwide concern. Follow these best practices to ensure that unwanted UH-owned ewaste is properly disposed of
Securely Delete Data
Security of information is a major concern with electronic equipment; even an office copy machine may contain data that should be safe guarded. Relying on the Delete function or Trash folder on a computer to erase data is not a safe practice; review the ITS article Securely Deleting Electronic Information (link) for steps that can be taken to insure that data is sufficiently erased from a variety of devices.
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Check if Others can use it
If the device is still usable after securely erasing it, issue an internal email or memo within the department to see if anyone has use for the unwanted equipment; if not, then advertise it as available on the UH Electronic Swap Meet (link), where surplus materials and equipment can be transferred between departments within UH. The Swap Meet also contains a section for listing of Wanted Items.
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Verify Inventory
Prior to disposal of ewaste, contact department Administrative Officers (AO) or Fiscal Officers (FO) who may be responsible for the inventory of equipment; verification of ownership via the serial number or State Decal number on the equipment may be required.
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Determine Best Disposal/Recycling Method
Always follow other established procedures for transfer or disposal of UH-owned equipment outlined in the ITS article UH-Owned Computer Equipment - Disposal Guidelines (link).
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Additional Information
A United Nations report suggests that production of waste electrical and electronic equipment could rise by as much as 500% over the next decade (link). According to a Waste Electrical and Electronical Equipment (WEEE) forum, 2021 had a total of an estimated 57.4 million tonnes of ewaste (link). Following these best practices is a positive step in slowing the impact that the use of electronics and their recycling will have on Hawaii’s ecosystem.
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