PHS News

PHS Datashred helps customers to comply WEEE Directive without risking their confidential information

As the president of the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM) warns of the problems associated with exporting waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) to the developing world, PHS Datashred has re-iterated its commitment to recycle and re-use all of its electronic waste here in the UK.

Jeff Cooper, president of the CIWM and policy manager for producer responsibility at the Environment Agency, said that some unscrupulous operators are deliberately exporting equipment as useable, even though it is not fit for purpose. Whilst sending working computers to the developing world may be an admirable venture, the lack of check and controls on such equipment means that some are effectively utilising this as a disposal route.

As Anthony Pearlgood, Commercial Director at PHS Datashred comments “At PHS Datashred we believe that transferring our waste issues to the developing world is no solution and we therefore guarantee that all of our re-furbished computers will be utilised by UK charities and organisations. Where the technology exists in the UK to recycle even the most complex of component parts, this will also be used in preference to any non-UK recycler.

At PHS Datashred we strive to be Best Demonstrated Practice in both our legal and social obligations and welcome the comments of the CIWM. If their statement encourages more customers to questions their suppliers about how they dispose of their old IT equipment then it can only be a good thing for those of us who operate legitimately and transparently.“