On current days, data protection and eco-sustainability are the priority issues. While identity thefts as well as violations of privacy are increasing, most individuals and organizations prefer confidential waste disposal in the form of shredding. But are these safe practices followed for rendering our planet sustainable as well?

Let us see if shredding and recycling — two most traditional ways of disposing of confidential trash — can coexist in implementing a sustainable system of waste disposal. 

Knowledge of Confidential Waste Disposal

Confidential garbage disposal includes shredding confidential documents such as financial reports, patient records, employees' records, legal papers, and clients' details safely. It is to prevent unauthorized disclosure and follow data protection laws such as GDPR or HIPAA.

Traditionally, shredding has been the standard practice. But mounting environmental pressures are raising questions: Is shredding enough? Or can recycling be injected into the process without diminishing security?

Shredding: A Security-First Process

Shredding is a very safe way to dispose of confidential documents. It renders sensitive information illegible and virtually un-reconstructable. Here's the process:

  • Cross-cut or micro-cut shredders cut paper into very small fragments, with the best document protection.
  • Shredder paper is typically baled and shipped to specialized recycling facilities.
  • Most professional shredding services typically provide legal certificates of destruction for regulatory purposes.

Advantages of Shredding:

  • Guarantees highest data security.
  • Ensures regulatory compliance and documentation.
  • Facilitates easy bulk disposal.

Disadvantages of Shredding:

  • Shredded paper's fibers are very short when mishandled, and therefore such paper cannot be easily recycled.
  • Plastic folders or plastic binders are non-paper materials, which get mixed in with the recycling materials and contaminate the same.

Recycling: The Sustainability Powerhouse

Recycling contributes significantly to the reduction of landfill waste and saving natural resources. But then again, it has to be done with the greatest caution when confidential waste disposal is involved.

There are some vendors today that offer secure recycling, whereby documents are stored in a safe, logged, entered in escorted vehicles, shredded under observation, and recycled — finding the proper balance between security and sustainability.

Advantages of Recycling Confidential Waste:

  • Reduces re waste to landfills.
  • Saves energy and raw materials.
  • Demonstrates a company's environmental commitment.

Disadvantages:

  • Possibility of data exposure in case recycling bins are not secure.
  • Additional processing and checking may be necessary to ensure compliance with data protection regulations.

Sustainable Confidential Waste Disposal: The Hybrid Solution

And to everyone's surprise, security and sustainability do not necessarily have to be two mutually exclusive concepts. Hybrid services involving shredding and then recycling are being offered by the majority of waste removal companies. Below is how you can make your confidential waste removal more sustainable:

  • Choose an accredited service company that offers environmentally sound shredding and follow-up recycling. 
  • Pre-sort Segway material so only recyclables go into the shredder. 
  • Keep it from contamination by stripping plastic clips, binders, or non-paper items.
  • Employees are trained on green and safe disposal practices.
  • Monitor waste process on regular basis to track environmental footprint and regulation.

Wrapping Up

Is green confidential waste disposal then? Certainly — with the right attitude. When shredding is combined with good recycling, companies can keep sensitive material secure without compromising their green status.

Environmental confidential waste management is not a possibility — it's a requirement in this day and age of eco-friendly, regulation-minded times. Go green, go secure, one shredded page at a time.