Helping our south-east SME customers thrive with SUEZ Tech-Takeback

There’s something universal about that shelf in the back office. The one with a few laptops that haven’t been touched for years. A desktop tower from the old system. A charger that might still work, maybe. We all have a version of that shelf.

Most businesses don’t keep that tech out of laziness – they keep it out of busyness. When you’re running a business, especially with a lean team, you’re focused on what’s right in front of you: clients, operations, people, bills, growth – and that makes total sense. It also doesn’t help that current economic climate has small businesses reconsidering their sustainability practices due to cost concerns and limited resources.

But that stack of unused equipment is quietly costing you. Think about it – physical space and mental clutter, hidden security risks and a missed chance to meet sustainability goals.

But there’s a right way to manage that. With the right support, those dusty devices can start making a difference today – for you, your business and your community.

Old tech, fresh start

Old devices still hold sensitive data. Even if they’re powered off or haven’t been used in years, these devices are at risk of breaches one way or another. If they’re not disposed of properly, you could be exposed to breaches of UK data protection laws and GDPR non-compliance risks. These include having sensitive stored data falling into the wrong hands or paying hefty GDPR fines. You could also miss opportunities to recover value from your tech.

But more than compliance talk, there’s also a human story that we normally don’t consider. That old laptop that you haven’t used since 2020 - it could be the reason a teenager gets to finish coursework, or a way for a jobseeker to apply online, or even a parent being given a chance to take digital skills class online.

You’re not just clearing space. You’re opening doors.

A simple solution in complex times

Running a business at this time can be challenging – costs are up, resources are stretched. Those who are on the sustainability journey are also feeling the pinch. According to a study conducted by industry-leading media brand edie, over half of UK SMEs have pushed sustainability efforts to the back burner, not because they’ve stopped caring, but because the day-to-day reality leaves little room for anything extra.

But what if sustainability could be built into something you’re already dealing with – like old tech sitting in storage?

SUEZ has teamed up with Tech-Takeback, a non-profit that specialises in safely and sustainably handling old tech. Together, we offer a Tech-Takeback service for businesses in the south-east of England. This service helps companies securely dispose of unwanted electronics like phones and laptops. It’s a great way to meet your environmental goals and also give back to the local community.

The process is straightforward. First we collect your devices using a dedicated SUEZ vehicle at your convenience and process these before securely wiping (or destroy, if needed) all data to UK government standards. The equipment is then repaired and refurbished before it is passed on to people who need digital access. This means these devices could help someone apply for a job, learn a new skill or stay connected.

Businesses getting this service also get Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO)-compliant data erasure or destruction certificates and also receive impact environmental, social and governance (ESG) reports.

Sound business sense

Not only does the SUEZ Tech-Takeback service free up your office storage space and protects your data, it also cuts hidden costs in terms of collection and data disposal, saving you time, money and hassle.

Since refurbished devices are donated to digital inclusion projects, your business makes a difference in the community without the extra spend. Besides, consumers are more likely to support and trust environmentally conscious businesses. Recent survey results show that “92% of consumers trust brands that are socially responsible or environment friendly”. In terms of loyalty, 88% of consumers are more likely to support a company engaged in social and environmental causes.

And with certifications and transparent reports showing how your contribution is helping people and the planet, you are able to show proof of your positive impact. In fact, re-using IT equipment, after all, is better than recycling because the former is 20 times more energy-efficient than the latter. It keeps valuable materials in circulation and cuts down on emissions. But even more than that, your business gets to be an advocate of digital inclusion in your community.

Ready to give your old tech a second life? We’re here to help. Learn more about this secure and sustainable tech-re-use service at https://www.suez.co.uk/en-gb/techtakeback. Book a collection today!