Are We Being “Smart” or Creating More E-waste?

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Feb 13th, 2023

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Our smart devices are ever-evolving, from our phones to our watches and everything in between. Many are trying to keep up with the latest and greatest. Each year, there seems to be a newer model of the previous device, with manufacturers and providers alike offering a financial incentive to upgrade.

So what happens with our old devices when we upgrade? They may become e-waste. 

Whether your device stops working because it reaches its end of life or you cast it aside because you’ve upgraded, what do you do with it when you are no longer using it? Recycling or finding someone who can use the device is really the best way to keep more e-waste out of landfills. It’s important to consider how you’re disposing of this tech. If it breaks, it can still hold data, and in some cases, even if it is factory reset. 

These can be referred to as Internet of Things (IoT) devices. Currently, it is estimated that this year the number of  IoT devices will grow by 18% to 14.4 billion, and that number will continue to climb through the years. Are you making sure that you’re doing your part to keep them out of our landfills? It may be time to rethink the process! 

What is an IoT Device?

IoT devices are a network of devices that contain sensors, software, and various other technologies that have internet connectivity. These can be household devices like Nest Thermostats, Amazon Echoes, smart watches, or even large devices like connected cars that start with keyfobs instead of a physical key.

Proper Disposal Is Vital

The best way to reduce your impact when it comes to purchasing new IoT devices is to make sure you’re using what you already have until it dies. We often get excited about the latest technology, but that can come with a lack of concern when it comes to the disposal of devices. 

As consumers, it is easy to look forward to the updated features that a new device may bring and therefore forget how the chemicals that are in our old devices will impact our environment. Heavy metals like mercury, cadmium, and beryllium as well as chemicals like brominated flame retardants, can impact the health of our communities. 

Finding a reliable electronics recycler is a crucial factor for responsible recycling. Some companies send e-waste to landfills in Africa and Asia for reusable materials to be manually harvested. After what can be taken out, the scrap remains, which often ends up in the ocean. 

Securis is a certified R2 electronics recycling company, and we ensure that all of our downstream vendors are as well. If you’re looking for a responsible place to dispose of your e-waste, contact us today! 

  • Christopher Madeira

    Christopher Madeira

    Director of Marketing

    ITAD Communications & Strategy Expert

    Snapshot / Quick Stats

    • 15+ years of experience in marketing strategy, brand development, and communications
    • Specialized in IT asset disposition (ITAD) messaging for compliance-driven industries
    • Former leadership roles at The Chronicle of Higher Education, CQ Press, and other respected publishers
    • Key focus areas: Market Trends, Client Education, ITAD Compliance Messaging, Thought Leadership, SEO-Driven Strategy

    Areas of Specialization

    • Market Trends & Competitive Analysis – Tracks shifts in ITAD, resale, and sustainability markets to shape strategy and keep Securis ahead of industry developments.
    • ITAD Compliance & Security Messaging – Crafts clear narratives that translate regulatory and data security requirements into approachable guidance for IT leaders.
    • Client & Stakeholder Education – Builds educational resources and thought leadership content that empower clients to make informed ITAD decisions with confidence.

    Professional Narrative (Career Journey)

    Christopher Madeira is the Director of Marketing at Securis, where he shapes how the company communicates its mission of Secure, Accurate, and Sustainable IT Asset Disposition to regulated industries, government agencies, and enterprise clients. With more than 25 years of experience in marketing and communications, Christopher brings a unique perspective on how to bridge technical ITAD processes with clear, client-centered storytelling.

    Before joining Securis, Christopher served in senior marketing roles across publishing and education organizations, including The Chronicle of Higher Education, CQ Press, and Congressional Quarterly. These positions gave him deep expertise in shaping brand positioning, leading cross-functional teams, and delivering content that informs and engages decision-makers.

    At Securis, Christopher drives marketing strategies that not only build awareness but also educate IT leaders on data security, compliance, and sustainability best practices. His work ensures that Securis remains a trusted voice in the ITAD industry, aligning brand authority with the company’s core differentiators: Secure, Accurate, and Sustainable services.

    Quote

    “Clear communication makes complex ITAD issues approachable for IT leaders.”

    Thought Leadership & Recognition

    Christopher is the author of numerous Securis blog articles on compliance, sustainability, and ITAD strategy. He has also developed content campaigns that help IT decision-makers understand the evolving landscape of secure data destruction, ESG reporting, and value recovery.

    Personal 

    A strategist at heart, Christopher is passionate about helping organizations cut through the noise and understand the real risks — and opportunities — in ITAD. Outside of his professional work, he enjoys exploring D.C.’s history, traveling,  connecting with his community, and aviation photography. 

    Trust & Transparency

    Christopher ensures that every piece of Securis’ external communication is not only accurate but also aligned with the certifications and compliance standards that define the company’s reputation. His commitment to transparency reinforces Securis’ standing as a trusted partner for IT asset disposition.