1.9.2025

Responsible IT disposal: why recycling electronics is more than just good practice

Outdated laptops, unused smartphones, old hard drives every organisation has them. But what happens when these devices are no longer in use? For many companies, the answer is to store them in drawers, closets, or server rooms, often forgotten until the next office cleanout. 

The reality is that holding on to unused IT equipment isn’t just a space issue it can be a data security risk. In this article, Kuusakoski's Ecommerce & Marketing Manager Tatu Karlström sheds light on the world of electronics recycling, offering insights into how companies can manage old IT equipment responsibly and securely. 

Why outdated IT devices shouldn’t be left sitting around 

Office electronics should not be allowed to accumulate in lockers or forgotten corners of the office. Devices like old laptops often still contain sensitive data. If one of these devices is later turned on and connected to the company network, it may be missing critical security updates, making it a weak point that could be exploited by cybercriminals. 

Even a single unpatched laptop can act as a gateway for attackers to access internal systems. This risk is even more significant for organisations already facing targeted cyber threats. That’s why every company, regardless of size or sector, should have a clear policy in place for how to handle and dispose of outdated IT equipment. 

A structured and secure process for IT recycling 

Secure electronics recycling isn’t just about collecting devices, it’s about protecting data and minimising risk throughout the process. Our workflow at Kuusakoski is designed to do just that: 

1. Container delivery: A sealed, data-secure collection container is delivered to your site. 
2. Filling and sealing: Once full, the container is sealed with a wire lock, ensuring it remains tamper-evident during transport. 
3. Pickup and transport: You can order pickup at your convenience. We use trusted logistics partners.  
4. Facility intake: We receive the containers at a secure Kuusakoski facility and register into a controlled destruction workflow. 
5. Processing: We handle items securely and ensure they are destroyed or processed within 5-20 business days, always within the country of collection. 

Tailored data security services for every business 

Our data-secure services are designed to meet the needs of all types of businesses: from small companies handling confidential materials to institutions with strict regulatory requirements. 

For high-security needs 

For customers such as government entities or corporations with sensitive internal policies, we offer enhanced service features: 

  • Point-to-point logistics using drivers with security clearance issued by the Finnish Security Intelligence Service 
  • Supervised destruction, where you may personally oversee the process either at our facility or at your own site 
  • Ultra-fine shredding of storage media such as hard drives, USB sticks, memory chips, and optical discs 
  • Serial number–based reporting, ensuring full traceability of each unit processed 

These services are ideal for organisations that require verifiable, high-assurance destruction of sensitive materials. 

For standard security requirements 

Companies without strict data-destruction policies can benefit from cost-effective options that still maintain a high level of data protection: 

  • Turvaroskis and tailored solutions that include easy-to-use containers, secure transport, and destruction with standard particle sizes 
  • Flexible reporting options ranging from detailed reporting by kilograms or serial numbers to no reporting, depending on the organisation’s needs 

These options provide flexibility without compromising the integrity of data destruction or environmental responsibility. 

Reuse is prioritised 

In line with the EU’s waste hierarchy, we prioritise reuse over destruction whenever possible. Functional devices are routed to a dedicated reuse process that includes: 

  • Software-based overwriting of data using professional tools, in accordance with strict national security and data protection guidelines 
  • Physical removal of any labels, serial numbers, or identifying markers 
  • Verification to confirm that no data is recoverable 

Devices that pass all stages can be reused safely. If a device cannot be securely wiped due to damage or software limitations, it is directed to shredding and material recovery. 

What can be securely recycled? 

Secure disposal isn’t limited to just computers and phones. We handle a wide range of data-bearing and branded materials, including: 

  • Laptops, servers, mobile phones, external drives, memory cards 
  • Office papers, archived documents, binders 
  • ID badges, chip-based access cards, security tokens 
  • Uniforms and branded products, regardless of the material 
  • CDs, DVDs, magnetic tapes, and other media 

We treat each material according to its type, value, and potential security implications. 

Partner with a trusted expert 

As a 110-year-old Finnish family business and a leader in circular economy practices, we are your trusted partner for secure and sustainable recycling. Our expertise is trusted by corporations, government entities, and critical infrastructure providers alike. 

Ready to clear out your old electronics responsibly, and keep your data safe in the process? 

Get started