6 min read
Let’s be real—most companies don’t think twice about IT recycling. Old laptops and servers pile up in storage rooms, get handed off to "some guy with a truck," or worse, sit around collecting dust. But here’s the kicker: improper IT disposal can lead to data breaches, compliance issues, and wasted money.
That’s why Episode 98 of Ticket Volume - IT Podcast is a must-listen. Host and Product Specialist at Invgate, Matt Beran sits down with Alicia Syx, an IT asset disposal (ITAD) expert at Sycamore International, to uncover the shocking truth about IT disposal. From data security nightmares to turning old tech into cash, Alicia shares what IT teams need to know.
And if you think wiping a hard drive is enough… think again. Let’s get into it. This are the highlights of Episode 98.
98. IT Recycling done right: Alicia Syx on secure & sustainable ITAD
What happens to old IT equipment?
Picture this: an entire floor of a company building packed with old laptops, monitors, and servers—just sitting there, collecting dust. Sounds like an exaggeration? Not at all. This is the reality for many organizations that don’t have an IT recycling plan.
In her conversation with Matt, Alicia Syx shares wild stories of IT disposal gone wrong. She’s seen rooms overflowing with tech, forgotten storage closets filled with who-knows-what, and companies that have zero clue what they’re actually discarding. And while some organizations carefully track and recycle their assets, others… well, let’s just say she’s walked into places where the tech graveyard is very real.
The problem? IT disposal isn’t just about clearing out space—it’s about security, compliance, and sustainability. If old devices aren’t handled properly, they can become a breeding ground for data breaches or contribute to the growing e-waste crisis. And yet, companies still rely on outdated disposal methods that leave them vulnerable.
So, what’s the actual state of IT recycling? Chaos. But don’t worry—Alicia breaks down how to fix it.
The data security risks you can’t ignore
Think wiping a hard drive means your data is safe? Well, no. Not really. Alicia reveals how discarded tech often still holds sensitive data—even when companies think it’s been erased. She’s seen data pulled from old server caches, printers, and desk phones, proving that IT disposal isn’t just about clearing space—it’s a serious security risk.
And yet, companies still hand off their tech to unverified recyclers, trusting that it’s "handled." Spoiler: it’s often not. That’s why Alicia stresses the need for certified ITAD providers with NAID AAA and R2V3 certifications, ensuring secure, responsible disposal.
What Is NAID AAA certification?
NAID AAA is the gold standard for data destruction security. It means a third-party organization routinely audits and verifies that IT asset disposal providers follow strict security protocols—from locked transport vehicles to controlled processing environments.
What Is R2V3 certification?
R2V3 is the leading certification for responsible IT recycling. It ensures that all IT assets are either properly wiped, refurbished, or recycled—without ending up in landfills or being shipped overseas for dumping. Because if your IT recycling plan involves a random guy with a truck… you’ve got a problem.
IT recycling is more than just “getting rid” of old devices
So, what to do with old laptop computers? For many companies, IT recycling just means clearing out old equipment to free up space. But real IT recycling goes beyond disposal—it’s about security, sustainability, and maximizing value.
Alicia explains that not all recyclers follow responsible practices. Some simply dump e-waste overseas or send devices to landfills, creating major environmental and compliance risks. Certified ITAD providers, on the other hand, ensure assets are securely wiped, refurbished, or properly recycled.
And here’s the kicker: recycling doesn’t always mean scrapping. Many discarded devices still have years of life left and can be resold, reused, or donated—saving money and reducing waste. But if your IT recycling strategy is just about "getting rid of stuff," you’re missing out on real value.
The surprising financial benefits of proper IT recycling
IT recycling is not just a cost. Most companies assume that disposing of old tech means paying for its removal. But Alicia explains that, done right, IT recycling can actually generate revenue.
Many discarded devices—especially laptops, desktops, and tablets—still hold value. But instead of cashing in, companies often pay unnecessary disposal fees. Alicia’s advice? Work with an ITAD provider that replaces invoices with checks—because if your four-year-old laptop still has value, why pay to get rid of it?
Of course, not all tech retains worth. Networking equipment, for example, depreciates fast, often turning into a data security liability rather than an asset. But with the right refresh cycles and ITAD strategy, organizations can offset IT costs instead of adding to them.
The environmental impact of IT waste
As episode 98 of Ticket Volume uncovered, many organizations still get it wrong—whether by neglecting security risks, missing financial opportunities, or unknowingly contributing to environmental harm.
Alicia shared eye-opening insights on how businesses can turn IT disposal from a liability into an advantage. So before you dump that outdated hardware or trust “some guy with a truck,” ask yourself: Are we handling IT recycling the right way?
If you want the full story—including wild IT disposal fails, data security tips, and how Sycamore International went off-grid—you can listen to episode 98 of Ticket Volume - IT Podcast on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform.
