Environmental and Social Telecoms » WEEE | Waste electrical and electronic equipment:

The E-Waste industry has exploded. A rapid turnover of technology results in a large percentage of telecoms and network equipment ending up in landfill. This has a huge impact on our environment, by adding to the growing unsustainable waste issue associated with the linear economic framework / throwaway culture as well as creating dangerous working and living conditions for the individuals in the surrounding area of these landfill sites, quite often found in lesser developed countries as much waste is shipped abroad.

Collectively the E-Waste issue results in billions of lost revenue per year, from the lost value in recycling costs to the costs included with the increased demand for precious metals and materials being needed for dealing with the waste itself. When a network approaches EOL ( end of life ) the network owner/business faces a choice, the decision to upgrade and or refresh the network. Over time certain practices have been normalised, such as the purchase of new equipment without the consideration of the potential negative impact the decision may produce.

The peace of mind associated with the purchase of new telecommunication network equipment may provide a sense of security, however, let’s include a compelling warranty provided with all equipment purchases from » PICS Telecom, and as an extension, the social and environmental positives associated with the reused option provide a pretty compelling offer, let’s be sure not to forget the large cost savings that come with any reused option. When looking at environmental and social telecoms and the impact the industry has, the circular economic model must be considered. Once EOL equipment is valued and cannot be used, recycling needs to be considered, valuable materials can be extracted and sold, revenue can be generated, however, most importantly, it’s a circular practice.

Why Should You Recycle? » Recycling Telecoms and Network Equipment.

• 1 Ton of recycled steel can save 1.5 tons of iron ore, 0.5 tons of coals & 0.92 tons of CO2
• 1 Ton of mobile phones contain as much gold as 70 tons of gold ore
• Almost 40% of the worlds demand for copper is met using recycled material
• By recycling copper instead of extracting it from mines, we can reduce CO2 emissions by 65%
• 60% of copper produced from the 1900’s is still in use
• Recycling Metal emits 80% less Carbon Dioxide than production from Raw Materials
• 1 Ton of Steel can save 1.5 tons of iron from being mined and saves natural habitats and woodlands
• You can be paid for your scrap metal
• Recycling Steel uses 70% less energy than mining and refining virgin ore
• Recycling metal avoids sending permanent material to landfill

PICS Telecom’s in-house recycling operations have extensive experience in managing the entire range of electronic recycling activities and developing best-practice processes. PICS has developed strategic partnerships with global recycling partners to ensure that the right environmental controls are used throughout all stages of our recycling program. PICS sustainability efforts are truly global; with customers anywhere from Greece to Saudi Arabia, PICS helps international businesses reduce their environmental footprint, full circle.

Recycling And Data Destruction.

PICS can reassure it’s partners that, the recycling of their surplus assets will comply with the current legislation affecting our industry, and we will always keep them up to date with the often complex and ever-altering legislative changes. PICS in-house recycling team is on hand to advise on the most cost-effective method of disposal regardless of the type of telecom equipment including hazardous, data encrypted, and general site clearance of infrastructure. We are T11 Exempt, which allows us to process WEEE material and we are classified as an “ ATF “ Authorized Treatment Facility. We have trained staff on Waste Management Industry Training Advisory Board (WAMITAB) to ensure the highest efficiency and compliance with legislation. We have a zero-landfill target.

Environmental and Social Telecoms » Wrap up.

Let’s consider the impact of the decisions we take across the board, connect and collaborate to not only provide considerable cost savings at the time of your next network project, but to scale the circular economy whilst removing harmful assets falling into landfill, connect and optimise your network today with PICS Telecom.

Related blogs:

• 6 Benefits of buying reused telecommunications equipment.
• Telecoms for sale.
• How to choose a telecommunications provider.
• The circular economy vs linear economy 101.
• Telecoms Circular Economy Misconceptions.

» Resources: Telecoms Circular economy misconceptions » 2020 Global E-Waste monitor.

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