As a proud Shropshire Chamber member, Shropshire IT Recycling is helping local businesses rethink how they handle redundant IT equipment. Whether it’s a cupboard full of outdated tech gathering dust or a pile of forgotten devices, they offer a free collection service that makes disposal easy, responsible, and environmentally friendly.

We visited their team to explore how they’re driving sustainability across the county, and how businesses can take simple, practical steps to think greener and benefit from expert support.

Where it all began

It all started from a personal moment of resourcefulness. David Smith, Managing Director, decided to repair his wife’s broken phone to avoid paying for a replacement. This sparked a passion for tech repair and led to the launch of what is now a rapidly growing company, originally run from home.

David shared, “I’m neurodivergent, and I believe this has helped to define the business. I left school with very few qualifications, having failed most of my GSCE’s, and was often seen as the ‘naughty kid’. There is no way on earth I would’ve got where I am without the drive that comes with neurodiversity.”

Challenges in encouraging businesses to recycle responsibly

After immersing himself in the world of IT recycling, David quickly identified key challenges in encouraging businesses to dispose of IT responsibly. David said, “Far too much gets shoved in the bin… I walked into a company that was chucking cable in the bin because they didn’t realise we take cable.”

The main challenges include:

  • Lack of awareness – Many businesses don’t realise which items can be recycled.
  • Data security concerns - Companies hesitate to dispose of IT equipment due to fears about sensitive data being compromised. However, Shropshire IT provides a data destruction certificate to confirm all data has been securely erased.
  • Misconceptions – Some believe that once items are in landfill, they’re safe, which isn’t true.
  • Inconvenience – Despite free collection services, some businesses still opt for the bin.

Reaching out to Shropshire IT is a simple way for businesses to improve their CSR. It’s a free service, so an absolute no-brainer. An estimated 90 – 95% of collected items are either refurbished or recycled. Very little goes to landfill, meaning businesses can contribute significantly to sustainable practices just by clearing out unused tech.

Worries about data protection

Data security is undeniably a top priority for all businesses, as breaches can have serious consequences. Shropshire IT ensures that all data is secure throughout the   entire recycling process by.

  • Using certified data-wiping software, such as Aiken Workbench, which meets the Department of Defence standards.
  • Physically destroying hard drives when necessary.
  • Providing a data destruction certificate to clients.
  • Holding ISO 9001, ISO 14001, AND ISO 27001 certifications, along with a T11 exemption and a waste carrier’s license.

Giving back to charity

For businesses looking to enhance their CSR and support charitable causes, Shropshire IT offers a unique opportunity.

David explains “If the items collected can be refurbished and given a new life, Shropshire IT will donate the proceeds to the customer’s chosen charity.”

Charities themselves can also request a collection of unused IT equipment, and Shropshire IT will donate the proceeds back to them.

Goals for the next five years

Throughout our conversation, David spoke passionately about his neurodiversity and his desire to help others embrace theirs. David said, “In five to ten years’ time I want to be stepping away from the everyday business tasks and increase involvement with neurodiverse communities, offering workshops and placements for autistic and ADHD young individuals.”

With David’s firsthand experience, the company aims to create meaningful opportunities. They plan to offer workshops in a supportive, structured environment where individuals with autism and ADHD can gain practical skills. Through tailored work placements, these individuals will be given the chance to build confidence, develop technical abilities, and feel valued in a workplace that understand their needs.

The company also plans to expand its scrap recycling capabilities, aiming to handle more of the refining process internally, further improving sustainability and continuing its charitable partnerships.

Shropshire Chamber encourages local businesses to share best practice around sustainability, whether it’s tips, tricks, offers, or success stories. If you’ve got something to share with the Shropshire business community, get in touch with our marketing team at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..