Every year, the world generates around 40 million tons of electronic waste (e-waste) – the equivalent of throwing away 800 laptops every second! (according to The World Counts). As the digital landscape continues to expand, so does the need to manage digital waste responsibly. At Stellenbosch University (SU), the Information Technology (IT) Division is actively working towards more sustainable practices by finding practical ways to reduce e-waste, while supporting the University’s broader commitment to sustainability.
Clive Layman, a technical support specialist from the End User Support team at the IT Division, says IT does not work in isolation when addressing e-waste – it actively collaborates with departments across campus. “When equipment reaches the end of its usable life, the IT Division must help departments dispose of it correctly. This involves ensuring equipment is decommissioned securely and then properly recycled or repurposed,” he says.
Old hardware – like computers, hard drives and memory – is handled through secure processes. Hard drives are removed and physically destroyed to protect sensitive data. A specialised company collects these components, using tools like hammers and piercing devices to render the drives unreadable. These drives are then sent for secure recycling. This process ensures that sensitive data cannot be recovered and that e-waste is kept out of landfills.
Students and staff can also make use of yellow bins that are available at the IT HUB and the ICT main building in Hammanshand Road, where smaller items like batteries, used phones or any small electronic devices can be put in for disposal. Staff members can also bring home electronic equipment that is not in use anymore to the ICT main building for disposal.
With the introduction of new operating systems like Windows 11, the IT Division often evaluates older devices brought in for upgrades. In some cases, older laptops may not meet the minimum system requirements to run newer software efficiently. Before proceeding with an upgrade, the team considers several factors, including the age of the device, long-term performance expectations and replacement costs.
If the device is unlikely to handle the new software smoothly, the IT team may recommend a device replacement instead of a software or hardware upgrade (costs versus upgrades are key). This not only ensures a better user experience but also helps prevent unnecessary digital waste down the line caused by continued reliance on outdated equipment. “Just because an older laptop can technically be upgraded, doesn’t mean it should be. Continuing to use a device that struggles with newer software leads to inefficiencies, frustration and often a shorter device lifespan. The IT Division helps users make informed decisions to avoid these pitfalls,” says Layman.
Beyond physical hardware, the IT Division is also looking at digital clutter – data waste. Departments and individuals are encouraged to regularly clean up digital storage. This includes deleting old or unnecessary files, backing up critical data securely and avoiding the buildup of redundant copies.
Staff and students are guided to remove old files when systems and devices are decommissioned and back up important data in a secure location. There have been cases where departments failed to secure data properly before equipment was written off – highlighting the need for better awareness and communication around digital responsibility. Whether you are a staff member or student, you can contribute to reducing digital waste by regularly decluttering your digital storage, ensuring old devices are disposed of through the proper channels, and being mindful of what you save and how long you keep it on your device.
Through collaboration and awareness, the IT Division’s goal remains clear in this regard: to not only reduce e-waste but to handle the university resources responsibly and securely to reduce its digital footprint – one hard drive, upgrade and file at a time.
