According to a 2021 report by Statistica, 87% of people in the U.S. have access to at least one computer in their household. An exciting statistic to be sure. That means that the vast majority of U.S. citizens have computer access for work and/or personal use. But what happens when these computers reach the end of their lives? What happens when their owners decide to upgrade their computers for faster processors, higher-resolution screens or more storage? Storing devices in an IT storage room, an extra cubicle, or even a basement isn’t ideal. Illegal dumping is an environmental hazard. That’s where computer equipment recycling enters the scene!
We maintain a secure chain of custody
When you’re ready to recycle your old computer, you can mail it to us or you can drop it off at our locations. If you have multiple computers and other electronics and you don’t want to bother hauling them, we’re always happy to arrange a pickup. When we pick up your devices, our in-house team transports them in one of our company trucks. This ensures a tight chain of custody and keeps your data secure. Once our truck arrives back at our facility to unload your computers, we unload them while our closed-circuit cameras monitor everything. Your security is always our number one priority.
Our computer equipment recycling process
Once your computers arrive at our St. Paul facility, they undergo a safe, secure and thorough testing and refurbishing or recycling process.
If we determine that your computers aren’t candidates for refurbishing, our teardown team begins by disassembling computers and other electronic devices with screwdrivers, screw guns and hand tools. They remove the circuit boards and separate out the plastic, aluminum, copper and other materials. For your data security, as a National Association of Information Destruction (NAID®) AAA-certified organization, we destroy all data onsite by either physical shredding or electronic sanitization to Department of Defense-level standards. We also offer a secure mobile shredding service for customers who are interested!
Once sorted, these components are sent to our certified vendors for shredding, smelting and upcycling into new electronics.
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We take responsibility
Because the work we do involves handling sensitive data and environmental toxins, Tech Dump maintains the R2™ (Responsible Recycling) Certification. We also maintain the ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 certifications. These require that we prioritize a safe and healthy workplace and are good stewards of the environment throughout our entire process from intake to recycling or refurbishment.
We guarantee that all your sensitive data is destroyed through shredding or wiping and we offer a Certificate of Destruction for any customers who request this service.
Our impact
- We provide extensive on-the-job training for adults who face barriers to employment. Our 18-month program opens up opportunities for these adults to move into living-wage jobs and successful futures.
- We understand that creating new electronics is a resource-intensive process. That’s why, as our team moves electronics through this process, we test and repair any devices that can be resold in our brick-and-mortar store, Tech Discounts. Refurbishment helps lessen our carbon footprint and makes electronic devices more accessible to all.
If you’re interested in working with Tech Dump to recycle your computer equipment, give us a call at (763) 432-3117. We’d love to partner with you to make the computer recycling process as easy, environmentally friendly and impactful as possible!