Security News > 2023 > July > E-Waste: Australia’s Hidden ESG Nightmare

Australia has an e-waste problem, and for all the conversations around climate change, energy use, plastics and other ESG matters, it's surprising that more isn't said about it.

Currently, just 12% of the nation's computers are recycled, and Australia is the fourth-highest generator of e-waste per capita.

This a significant environmental risk, because poorly managed e-waste means heavy metals and hazardous waste such as lead, mercury, cadmium and brominated flame retardants can leak into the environment.

While Australia has made efforts to establish e-waste recycling programs, such as the National Television and Recycling Scheme, the convenience of these systems is inadequate.

With the right partners and suppliers, which can offer reliable data-wiping services, the IT team will be able to manage the challenges of e-waste management in Australia.

Largely due to these risk factors, the costs of poorly managing e-waste is likely to accelerate rapidly in the months ahead. Organizations that aren't already planning to modernize their e-waste strategy will need to do so soon to avoid being caught out.

News URL

https://www.techrepublic.com/article/australian-it-pros-mitigate-data-leaks-e-waste/