E-waste management: Best practices needed

As a qualified e-waste manager with more than 15 years of experience in the industry, I’ve seen firsthand the devastating impact of irresponsible e-waste disposal practices, and I’m compelled to share my concerns with fellow Namibians.

Leaders in Namibian industries have a responsibility to ensure that their company’s e-waste is disposed of in a secure, environmentally friendly, and compliant manner.

However, I’ve witnessed malpractice in the awarding of e-waste tenders, where personal interests often take precedence over corporate and environmental responsibility.

Unaccredited vendors, often with connections to decision-makers, are awarded contracts, putting sensitive company data and the environment at risk.

I’ve seen it happen in prominent companies, including financial institutions with high-level client information.

It’s alarming that some companies prioritise personal gain over responsible practices, allowing untrained vendors to handle sensitive e-waste.

Among other consequences, this results in many clients falling victim to fraudsters.

CLASH OF INTERESTS

Many times question, have been asked, how do some fraudsters in some cases get access to some clients’ data.

In some cases here is the answer: improper disposal of data storage devices because of fear of incurring expenses due to engaging professional e-waste companies.

Another reason is a lack of professional procurement practices because of a clash of interests and entitlement among employees..

Companies must stop auctioning e-waste as it tends to encourage dishonesty between employees engagements with the employer.

To maintain a master class high level of excellence when it comes to e-waste disposal, employees especially should engage in professional practices.

I urge Namibians to take a proactive approach to e-waste management.

Partner with accredited, reputable e-waste vendors who prioritise data security and environmental sustainability.

Ensure transparency in your procurement processes, and hold your team accountable for responsible e-waste disposal.

Imagine a N$5 billion financial house risking its business by engaging in unprecedented and unprofessional e-waste disposal practices.

DICEY DISTRIBUTION

If companies engage the wrong people, they can end up having data storage devices lying on the banks of the Goreangab or in the mountains at Brakwater as they they been disposed of incorrectly.

This is a strong warning to heads of companies to properly monitor the procurement employees and ensure that they are not engaging non-qualified e-waste vendors.

We need to work together to protect our environment, our clients’ data, and your company’s reputation.

• Ignatious Jingura is an e-waste expert, and the founder of an e-waste company.

In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.