Windows 11 Transition Series: Ethical Disposal Guide
Ethical Disposal of Old Devices
With the end of Windows 10 fast approaching, upgrading to Windows 11 will soon become essential for many businesses, with more than just software upgrades to consider.
It presents a chance to adopt responsible e-waste management and improve sustainable procurement practices. In the second installment of our Windows 11 Transition Series, we delve into strategies for minimising environmental impact throughout your upgrade journey, emphasising responsible recycling and efficient lifecycle management techniques.
What is Ethical Disposal of Devices?
With IT hardware constantly upgrading the production rate of electronics has increased. This has led to a concerning trend: many of these devices end up abandoned in landfills or forgotten in cupboards, unused and neglected.
Recognising the environmental and social implications of this trend, ethical practices in IT disposal have become imperative. By diverting devices away from the landfill cycle and repurposing them, we can better serve both our environment and society.
Why is it Important?
Critical Materials Shortage
Let’s discuss the electronics stored in your home cupboard first. These devices hold valuable resources, some of which are limited. Did you know that six key elements crucial for mobile phone production are projected to be depleted within the next century if not adequately recycled? Additionally, we are currently facing a significant chip shortage, disrupting supply chains globally. Chips are vital components found in various products, from automobiles to smartphones to gaming consoles. Our daily lives rely heavily on them. Manufacturing chips is a complex process, typically taking around three months and requiring dust-free environments, extensive facilities, and multimillion-pound machinery.
Liberating these devices from the confines of cupboards and entrusting them to ethical recyclers, secondary users, or vendors could significantly contribute to mitigating the critical materials shortage. By doing so, we ensure a sustainable supply of these vital resources while contributing to a circular economy that reduces waste and environmental impact.
E-waste
With the frequent upgrading of devices by corporate organisations, offices, small businesses, and individuals, disposing of unwanted and outdated items has become more common. This is especially true considering the significant amount of data stored on these devices, necessitating thorough wiping.
E-waste is the fastest-growing toxic waste stream in New Zealand. In 2017, the country generated approximately 99,000 tonnes of electronic waste annually, amounting to 20.1 kg per capita. Unfortunately, a sizable part of this waste, around 97,000 tonnes, ends up in landfills, holding harmful chemicals and hazardous toxins. As these devices degrade, these pollutants seep into the surrounding soil and eventually contaminate water sources, further harming the environment.
Start your AI Journey
How to Minimise E-Waste in Your Windows 11 Upgrade
Step 1
Extended Product Lifespan
Before embarking on your upgrade journey, it’s essential to figure out if your current system meets the compatibility requirements for Windows 11. Ricoh’s experts offer a PC Health Check service to ensure that new devices are only added to your fleet where necessary, prolonging the lifespan of your existing equipment.
Step 2
Promote Reuse and Refurbishment
As a partner of HP, Ricoh has access to HP’s Device Recovery Service. This service helps the secure retirement of end-of-use devices through expert data erasure and device repurposing, contributing to a more-sustainable circular economy.
Step 3
Eco-friendly Design
Ethical disposal of old devices is just the beginning. It’s important to consider the environmental impact when procuring new devices. Ricoh’s product range includes several HP products designed with the environment in mind, incorporating recycled and ocean-bound materials.
Step 4
Partner with Experts
Ricoh’s commitment to sustainability is underscored by its recognition on the Dow Jones Sustainability Index. Partnering with Ricoh ensures that your business adheres to the highest standards of environmental stewardship and corporate responsibility, navigating the complexities of CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) with ease.
Why Ricoh?
Take the Next Step: Contact Us
Ready to upgrade to Windows 11 and ensure ethical disposal of your old devices? Contact us today to learn how Ricoh can help your business meet its sustainability goals and compliance requirements.
Recommended resources for you
Leveraging Microsoft Copilot for Enhanced Productivity
Let's explore how Copilot can revolutionise your business operations and drive revenue growth.
Digital Transformation with Intergroup
Join us on this remarkable expedition as we propel Intergroup towards an efficient, digitally empowered future.
Windows 11 Transition Series: Essential Steps to Take
As of October 14, 2025, support for Windows 10 will cease. After this date, devices still running on Windows 10 will no longer receive critical security updates or technical support from Microsoft.