Redefining Proper Data Disposal and Recycling in Singapore

Increasing Emphasis on E-waste Recycling in Singapore

It was announced on World Environment Day this year, that the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources (MEWR) will be continuing with their efforts to protect the environment by working closely with the National Environment Agency (NEA) to encourage recycling. To make it easier for the public to recycle their e-waste, MEWR has plans to implement a mandatory e-waste management system by 2021.

E-waste refers to the end of the “useful life” of both recyclable and non-recyclable electronic products. These include items ranging from office fax machines to personal hard drives, which often contain confidential and sensitive data. As Singapore seeks to place greater emphasis on recycling e-waste, Shred-it is helping you to do your part for environment, however our priorities are focused firmly on protecting your data in an environmentally friendly manner.

Implications of Improper Disposal

Data thieves are always on searching for opportunities to steal data. By not disposing of your e-waste securely, such as by leaving it with your neighborhood karang guni or rag and bone man, or by depositing it in e-waste bins or in regular waste bins without destroying the sensitive data first, you are greatly increasing your vulnerability to potential data breaches and identity theft. Data mongers or data thieves can easily retrieve your personal data from your improperly disposed of e-waste with a few simple hacks. Before you know it, your credit card information, authentication details, tax returns or medical records end up in their hands, to be used and manipulated for all kinds of illegal activities.

Furthermore, because of the heavy metals and hazardous substances contained in electronic products, simply throwing them away can be detrimental to both the environment and human health.

Start Secure E-waste Disposal Today

Proper disposal and recycling ensures that your data is securely destroyed in such a way that your data is safeguarded whilst protecting the environment too. Through proper destruction and recycling procedures, heavy metals extracted from e-waste can be reused by manufacturers to make new products without them being able to access your data.

Using state-of-the-art destruction machinery to destroy e-waste and by applying a secure chain of custody protocol in the destruction of your physical data, Shred-it gives organisations the opportunity to recycle their e-waste while ensuring it is completely secure. Shred-it is able to ensure that your organisation is in compliance with not just the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA), but also the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) as well, while protecting the environment.

Next time you decide to hand over your old laptop or hand electronic devices over to your neighbourhood karang guni or recycler, remember that data thieves are always lurking, waiting for opportunity. Don’t let your goodwill for the environment put you at risk.

Learn more about how Shred-it can assist you to properly dispose of your e-waste in a safe and secure manner by contacting us for a free quote and a security risk assessment.