Circular Economy A Second Life for Notebooks & Co.

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Interzero Holding GmbH & Co. KG

Taiwan Machine Tool & Accessory Builders' Association (TMBA)

Up to 37 percent of CO₂ emissions can be saved if IT devices are not immediately disposed of but reused instead. This is shown by a recent study from the Fraunhofer Institute. IT remarketing is considered an important component of the circular economy.

IT remarketing, the professional refurbishment and resale of used technology such as laptops, smartphones, or PCs, is becoming a key factor in the circular economy. Giving devices a second life saves raw materials, prevents electronic waste, and helps protect the climate. This second life for electronics extends product life cycles and advances the circular economy. At the same time, it is considered a crucial tool for resource conservation. Certified providers handle secure data deletion, repairs, and remarketing. Particularly because electronics consume many resources and are often used only once, a second life cycle is worthwhile. Why this also makes economic sense is explained by Jan Höschel, Managing Director of Interzero Product Cycle, in an interview.

Why is certified data deletion indispensable for companies today?

Jan Höschel: Companies that aim to act in accordance with data protection and standards such as ISO 27001 also rely on responsible data handling at the end of a device's lifecycle. In addition, there are often internal compliance requirements. Certified data deletion protects trade secrets and prevents sensitive information from falling into the wrong hands. This is already standard practice, particularly in critical infrastructures.

What sets your service apart from other providers?

Höschel: We offer a fully certified process chain: from collecting the devices from employees or on-site at the company, recording serial numbers, sealing, and transport to data deletion or physical destruction, everything is seamless. Every step is documented—including detailed reports, photos, and handover protocols. Customers have a dedicated contact person who manages the project in a partnership-based manner, often over many years. Flexibility and customized solutions are the focus.

What happens to the devices after deletion?

Höschel: The hardware is transferred to a second life cycle, if technically possible. For this, it is audited, cleaned, partially repaired, and refurbished. Depending on its condition, it is resold through proprietary platforms, to companies, schools, or authorities—sometimes even worldwide. Upon request, the technology can also be resold to employees via closed online shops. Warranty and support are provided to ease the burden on internal IT.

According to a recent Fraunhofer study, reuse saves significant amounts of CO2, water, and raw materials.

Jan Höschel, Managing Director of Interzero Product Cycle

How does this contribute to sustainability?

Höschel: According to a recent Fraunhofer study, reuse saves significant amounts of CO₂, water, and raw materials. Companies receive a climate protection certificate for this, which can be incorporated into their sustainability reporting—and additionally, they earn attractive revenues for their used hardware. This makes sense both ecologically and economically.

When do you recommend the physical destruction of data carriers?

Höschel: If a data carrier cannot be securely deleted because, for example, it is defective, certified destruction according to DIN 66399 is the right choice. This is carried out either on-site at the customer's premises or in our own deletion center—including complete documentation.

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