Eighth-Grader Saves End-of-Life Electronics from Landfills

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Apr 13th, 2022

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When his family threw out an old microwave, eighth-grader Eric Akers figured there must be a better way to get rid of old electronics. Concern for the environment and his future led him to Google, where he researched electronics recycling and available options. He wondered where that old microwave could have gone rather than ending up in a landfill.

safest place to recycle old electronics

Eric’s search led him to Securis, where he learned about Securis’ monthly electronic waste recycling event. He found the event nearest him, located in Northern Virginia.

Eric decided to help his neighbors bring their end-of-life electronics to Securis for recycling. He knew right then how he could help his neighborhood, the planet, and meet the requirements for his J.L. Simpson Middle School National Junior Honor Society project, which was happening during the same time.

Through his neighborhood’s and school’s Facebook groups, Eric began to figure out how to best collect the most end-of-life electronics. He wanted to make a big impact and keep retired computers and other e-waste from seeping harmful chemicals into the earth.

To make it easy for nearby schools and communities, he placed a box on his front porch. He was pleased to see how quickly it was filled. His efforts were so popular that neighbors were calling him to make sure he still wanted their unusable electronic devices. He did want them.

electronics recycling event

During the month leading up to Securis’ IT recycling event, Eric continued to collect old computers, phones, wires, and other electronic products from his neighbors. At first, he tried to keep an inventory of everything that he collected. After receiving 184 cords, he lost track of what was being dropped off and focused on the fact that people were participating in his e-waste recycling initiative.

When the time came, Eric and his family packed the bed of his dad’s truck with the e-waste he’d collected. They brought all of it to Securis to properly recycle. His recycling project included a wide variety of items like computers, phones, wires and cables, speakers, DVD players, and other electronic equipment. Holiday lights were even included in Securis’ list of acceptable items for the community electronics recycling event.

eric with his community electronics for recycling

Securis is thrilled to see initiatives like Eric’s recycling project, a mission we’re passionate about. Our younger generations are sure to continue with a commitment to environmentally-friendly recycling. These events help to protect our natural resources.

Many electronics recycling companies don’t guarantee the safety of the data remaining on old devices. Secuirs’ mission is to protect data. In addition to aiding in environmental protection, Eric’s project helped keep his neighbor’s personal information safe!

Securis offers monthly events for communities to properly dispose of their old and unused electronics. If you’d like to set up a pick-up for your community, please fill out our form to get more information.

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.
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Healthcare IT Asset Disposition: Why Secure and Accurate ITAD Protects PHI and Strengthens Compliance
ITAD Budgeting: How IT Leaders Build a Secure, Accurate, and Cost-Efficient Disposition Strategy
ITAD ROI: How IT Leaders Capture More Value Through Accurate, Fast, and Secure IT Asset Disposition