FINAL WORD
Do you have a circular plan in place for your IT assets ?
How can we reconcile the pressing need to innovate and remain competitive with our equally important need to be environmentally responsible ? Thankfully , the answer is not about choosing one or the other . Instead , it lies in reimagining the relationship with technology and embracing an end-to-end approach to sustainability , explains Doug Woolley at Dell Technologies South Africa .
In today ’ s world , electronic devices are essential , improving our lives and connecting us like never before . While this digital evolution has brought about incredible advancements and conveniences , it also presents the important challenge of managing electronic waste , e-waste . By embracing sustainable solutions and responsible recycling , we can enjoy the benefits of technology while safeguarding the environment for future generations .
The European Union , a global leader in environmental policy , finds itself grappling with the issue of e-waste . According to the UN , e-waste volumes are growing five times faster than e-waste recycling , with an 82 % jump since 2010 . E-waste is the fastest growing waste stream in South Africa , yet only 7 % – 12 % of the total volume is recycled formally .
The European Commission ’ s circular economy action plan has offered a glimmer of hope with its promotion of repair and reuse initiatives . However , businesses that are expected to be part of the solution are often caught between regulatory pressures , financial constraints and evolving consumer demands .
In this context , business decision makers often ask themselves : how can we reconcile the pressing need to innovate and remain competitive with our equally important need to be environmentally responsible ?
Thankfully , the answer is not about choosing one or the other . Instead , it lies in reimagining our relationship with technology and embracing an end-to-end approach to sustainability : where resources are valued , products are designed with sustainable materials and waste is minimised .
Here are some steps to help the technology industry reach that goal .
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