TALKING

Recycle or refurbishing of IT assets ?

If one considers the complexities of IT Asset Disposition , ITAD , a pressing question arises : is destruction the only option for old electronics ? The answer is no . Refurbishing electronics not only extends the life of these assets but also contributes to a circular economy – a model that CEOs should seriously consider for both environmental and financial benefits .

When electronic devices reach the end of their usable life , many organisations opt for immediate destruction . However , this approach overlooks the potential value locked within these assets . Refurbishment offers a viable alternative that aligns with responsible corporate governance principles while promoting sustainability .

By refurbishing , businesses can reduce waste . Refurbishing electronics minimises landfill contributions . The circular economy emphasises reusing materials and products , which lessens the environmental impact of electronic waste . With the global e-waste crisis escalating , businesses have a crucial role in mitigating this issue .

More importantly , one can enhance brand reputation . Today ’ s consumers and clients are increasingly environmentally conscious . By adopting refurbishment practices , companies can bolster their reputation as responsible corporate citizens committed to sustainability .

From a financial perspective , refurbishing electronics presents a compelling case for CFOs looking to optimise their budgets and enhance profitability :

Cost savings : Refurbishing equipment often costs significantly less than purchasing new devices . Organisations can allocate saved resources to other critical areas , such as research and development or employee training .

Extended lifespan : By refurbishing existing hardware , companies can extend the life of their ICT assets . This approach delays the need for new purchases , allowing organisations to maximise their existing investments .

Tax benefits : Depending on regional regulations , businesses may receive tax incentives for engaging in environmentally friendly practices , including refurbishment and recycling .

Disposal costs : Proper disposal of electronic waste can be expensive due to regulatory requirements and potential penalties for improper handling . By refurbishing and reusing , organisations can minimise these costs .

approach on underserved communities just does not make sense or accurately reflect the state of the world .

If you were born in an era where you walked into a physical bank , filled out a slip and deposited cash to make a payment , do you remember the trepidation you felt the first time you used Internet banking ? It takes time to develop trust , and so fintech , while gently easing cash-based customers into the digital economy , need to place trust front and centre of what they do .

Older generations may still be very uncomfortable transacting digitally , made worse by fraudsters targeting everyone , but the vulnerable specifically .

Being able to offer vulnerable customers the option to transact in cash goes a long way towards building a sense of security and trust . When you develop new products and services , customers will not use them if they do not trust you .

At Mukuru , over half of the remittance payments made through our platform are made in cash . We are seeing a trend towards digital payment adoption , but it has not yet tipped the scales away from this cash majority .

Ryan Birkenbach , ITAD Manager , Desco Electronic Recyclers

In a world rapidly moving towards digitisation , cash remains an essential element of financial inclusion for millions . Fintech must embrace this reality , offering flexible solutions that meet customers where they are , whether in the physical or digital realm . The path to full digitisation is not a forced march , but a journey we must walk alongside our customers , offering them the trust and choice they need to make the transition . p

32 INTELLIGENTCIO AFRICA www . intelligentcio . com