Top Three Takeaways From Recent ITAD-Industry Exhibitions

Smith checked in on the latest industry events to learn what’s emerging in ITAD.

Last week, Smith participated in two IT asset disposition industry events in the U.S. The Data Center World 2021 conference was held both virtually and in-person in Orlando, Florida and featured presentations from a range of industry leaders geared toward the IT infrastructure management professionals in attendance. Keynote presentations followed a common thread of preparing for the datacenter of tomorrow. They included meaningful discussions on leading-edge topics such as quantum computing, virtual reality, sports analytics, and datacenter sustainability.

The Global ITAD Institute held its in-person ITAD Summit 2021 in Huntington Beach, California, attracting ITAD professionals from across the industry to the annual event. With over 30 inspiring speakers, educational sessions, and business-development opportunities, topics ranged from data security and international growth to recycling and supply chain disruption.

Here are Smith’s top three takeaways from the conferences:

1. Hardware data security is becoming more important and more difficult.

When physical assets are improperly discarded, a wealth of personal and corporate data goes with them, unfortunately putting organizations and individuals at risk. Hybrid work environments, online learning, and technologically advanced vehicles are increasing the volume of retired assets. This change is driving the creation of new ITAD companies, while the global number of R2-certified provider locations has remained nearly constant. Partnering with a trusted provider of advanced data-sanitization and destruction services enables organizations to ensure data safety while exploring options for disposition and remarketing for incremental value.

2. Sustainability initiatives are driving value across the electronics supply chain.

With the rapid pace of technological change, the volume of retired assets has made electronics the world’s fastest-growing solid-waste stream. For larger companies, sustainability is gaining the attention of investors and making its way into board agendas. Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) concerns are top-of-mind for many leaders, and corporate initiatives are increasingly improving e-waste management to protect human health and the environment.

3. The future of the electronics industry requires supply chain visibility.

In recent months, the global pandemic, extreme weather patterns, and even a cargo ship lodged in the Suez Canal have contributed to significant disruptions in the global supply chain. These factors exposed some significant vulnerabilities within the supply chain but also demonstrated the value of strong international supplier relationships. With this increased exposure, savvy organizations are evaluating their supply chain partners to mitigate risk and increase efficiencies.

Ensure your data’s safety while exploring disposition and remarketing options from Smith. Supported by the premier operations facilities and experienced technicians of Smith’s Intelligent ITAD™ program, our ITAD services focus on ROI, compliance, and security. Reach out to our team of experts at [email protected].