ITkringlopen

ITkringlopen is a term used to describe the circular management of information technology assets across their lifecycles. The aim is to extend device use and minimize waste by reusing, refurbishing, repurposing, and recycling IT equipment, from laptops and servers to networking gear.

Core activities include asset inventory and lifecycle planning, secure data erasure, refurbishment for resale or donation, harvesting usable parts, and recycling non-reusable materials. Reuse reduces demand for new materials and energy, while recovered components feed repair ecosystems and support lower environmental impact.

Regulatory frameworks such as the European Union's WEEE and RoHS influence collection, treatment, and hazardous substance handling. National take-back schemes and producer responsibilities further promote end-of-life management. Data privacy laws require secure erasure before devices are reused or recycled.

Stakeholders include IT departments, refurbishers, retailers, manufacturers with take-back programs, and specialized e-waste processors. Best practices emphasize repair-friendly design, standardized components, certified refurbishment, and traceability of device origin and material recovery. Public and private procurement can encourage loops by preferring refurbished equipment.

Benefits include lower environmental impact, reduced waste, and potential cost savings. Challenges involve ensuring data security, maintaining quality of refurbished devices, creating stable markets for used equipment, and coordinating logistics and regulatory compliance across borders.

IT kringlopen form part of the broader circular economy and are supported by policy, standards, and industry initiatives aimed at extending lifetimes and valorizing end-of-life hardware.