Computer Recycling Green IT Expo in London, UK

Richard A Johnson recently attended the Green IT Expo in London. The aim of the conference? To showcase Green solutions to IT issues, most notably energy consumption and environmentally concious design. Here is Richards story when he attended the Green IT Expo

"Exhibiters at the conference ranged from Very PC, with their amazingly low powered desktop computers (24 watts per machine is more efficient than a laptop) to SIMMS recycling, a global recycler dealing directly with other mainstream recyclers. However, of most interest were the IT recycling companies present. As a representative in the same field, I thought it prudent to use them as a sounding board for issues I currently have with the UK's Computer Recycling industry. In effect, here's the conclusion that reflects every single recognised computer recycling company in the UK (IT-Green®, CDL, ICEX):

A combination of online marketing, Google Places and cheap (re-use) environmental licenses has given rise to small localised "recyclers" springing up throughout the UK. Potential business related clients are opting for the cheapest possible solutions when trying to recycle their computers and this in turn is leaving them open to the possibility of Brand damage, legal action and data security breaches. Recognised, professional recyclers have to of course maintain overheads that protect clients from the reality of security breaches and environmental protection and these simply are not in place with small operators that have been set up to take advantage of the WEEE directive. With less stringent environmental controls and reporting systems, those operating under section 50 exemptions are more likely to sell on waste electronics to exporters, who as highlighted by the Environment Agency have been assoiciated with organised crime.

As highlighted by Greenpeace in 2009, some 50 million tonnes of WEEE were dumped on developing countries and as I've said in previous posts, this is causing major problems, including deaths among children from lead poisoning......... "

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