Approximately 70% of toxic waste found in non-hazardous landfills originates from electronic waste, as reported by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. In today’s fast-paced technological landscape, companies are disposing of electronic devices at an unprecedented rate, yet less than 13% of this electronic waste is actually recycled, according to findings from The World Counts.
In light of these alarming statistics, Gaines Garrett, CEO of Secure Shredding and Recycling in Baton Rouge, emphasizes the importance of data protection for businesses of all sizes. He underscores that safeguarding data and confidential information from discarded electronic devices and documents is vital for local enterprises. “You don’t have to have millions of customers to experience a data breach,” Garrett states. “It’s essential to implement a program that ensures the security of both your electronic and paper records, as physical documents continue to pose a significant risk for data theft.”
Secure Shredding and Recycling is actively addressing the e-waste crisis, recycling between 1.2 million to 1.5 million pounds of paper each month from businesses across the southeastern United States. Notably, e-waste recycling is the company’s fastest growing segment, with an average of 120,000 to 150,000 pounds of electronic materials being recycled monthly.
Garrett advises business leaders to develop a records retention and data destruction policy aimed at mitigating the risk of data breaches. He recommends that local companies partner with providers certified by the National Association of Information Destruction to ensure the proper disposal of documents and electronic devices. He asserts that physical destruction remains the most reliable method for securely handling confidential data.
The risks associated with holding onto unnecessary data can be significant. Garrett warns, “Businesses often retain items longer than necessary, which incurs additional storage costs. In the event of legal proceedings, such as discovery, the expenses to manage and provide this data can escalate.” Establishing a clear data privacy and records retention policy is crucial, allowing businesses to state, “We maintain records only up to a certain point, after which we ensure proper destruction.” This clarity is imperative for effective data governance.
In conclusion, as e-waste continues to grow, the responsibility lies with businesses to adopt proactive measures for data security and recycling practices. Protecting sensitive information and ensuring environmentally responsible disposal of electronic waste are not just ethical imperatives but also crucial for operational efficiency and risk management. Promoting a culture of data accountability not only reduces the inherent risks of data breaches but also contributes positively to environmental sustainability.
