Global ITAD Strategy

Wisetek devised a comprehensive global ITAD strategy to address the unique needs and challenges posed by Google’s expansive global operations. This strategy involved:

• Global Standard Process – Wisetek implemented a global standard process facilitating collection requests in more than 80 countries worldwide.
• Scale – Between 2019 – 2023, Wisetek completed a total of 5,970 collection requests. Having a standard process allowed Wisetek to scale our operations for Google on a global scale.
• Centralized Management – Wisetek’s Returntek portal allows Google to directly access their specific information in one location. The portal provides end-to-end visibility of every job, so Google can track whether the job has been scheduled, collected, processed, and invoiced.

Flexibility

• Swollen Batteries – In 2021, Google had an issue with swollen laptop batteries across EMEA and APAC. Wisetek collected and responsibly disposed of a total of 757 swollen batteries in 2021 + 2022.

• Accessory Program – Wisetek set up an accessory refurb program for Google. The aim of this program is to give accessories such as cables, power cords, keyboards, mice, and power adapters a secondary life in the Google supply chain. Wisetek tests, cleans, and repackages accessories to go back into Google offices.

• Donations – assisted Google with donating approx. 10,000 devices to charity in the US.
• Employee Purchase Program (EPP) – Wisetek set up EPP programs for Google in North America, EMEA, and India allowing Google employees to purchase refurbished equipment at attractive pricing levels.

Secure Data Erasure

Data security was a paramount concern for Google. Wisetek implemented cutting-edge secure data erasure methods to ensure the complete and irreversible removal of sensitive information from decommissioned IT assets. This involved:

• Certified Processes – Adhering to industry standards and certifications, including e-Stewards and R2, to guarantee the highest level of data security.
• Chain of Custody – Implementing a robust chain of custody process to track assets throughout the data erasure and disposal journey.

Environmentally Responsible Disposal

Given Google’s commitment to sustainability, Wisetek incorporated environmentally responsible disposal practices into the ITAD strategy:

• Circular Economy – Implementing practices that contribute to a circular economy by re-using and recycling IT assets whenever possible.
• Reducing E-Waste – Minimizing electronic waste by prioritizing responsible disposal methods and partnering with certified recycling facilities.

Enhanced Security and Compliance

Wisetek’s secure data erasure methods ensured that all sensitive information was permanently and securely removed, meeting Google’s stringent data protection standards. The implementation of globally compliant processes also contributed to enhanced regulatory compliance.

Cost Savings and Revenue Generation

By reselling well-maintained equipment through Wisetek’s global resale network; Google achieved significant cost savings on disposal but also generated revenue from the resale of their IT assets. This contributed to a more cost-effective IT asset lifecycle management.

Positive Environmental Impact

Wisetek’s environmentally responsible disposal practices resulted in a substantial reduction in electronic waste, endorsing Google’s commitment to sustainability and contributing to a positive corporate image.