Focusing on Europe, Middle East and Africa In Europe, Middle East and Africa alone, HP recycled more than 38 million kilos (84 million pounds) of hardware. A significant amount of recycling was undertaken through organised events for both consumers and HP employees. These were held throughout Europe, including Austria, France, Germany, Ireland, Poland and the UK.
For consumers, HP organised a series of ‘Take Back’ events in France and the UK, with specific dates and locations arranged to return any used, out-of-date or unwanted hardware equipment.
In France, the operation was a double success, as much of the equipment was refurbished by Ecod’ Air and sold again at lower prices to customers who may not be in a position to buy brand new equipment. A non-governmental organisation (NGO), Ecod’ Air is renowned for its work in reintegrating mentally challenged people into employment by initiating the reconditioning of computer equipment.
Within the company, HP employees are always encouraged to return computer hardware for recycling. Never more so than in June, when HP held internal ‘Environment Day’ events in eleven countries in Europe. These included Austria, Denmark, Spain, Portugal, Poland, Germany, Norway, Sweden, UK, Ireland and Finland.
The events ranged from 1 to 2 days and included large information stands with posters, brochures and videos, all describing how employees can reduce their environmental impact at home and at work. At some of the events employees were given opportunities to return their own hardware equipment for recycling. More than 2,600 HP employees took part, returning over 6,000 kilos of used IT equipment in the process.
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