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Digital Technology: Recycling

Asked by Helen HayesLabourDepartment for Science, Innovation and TechnologyTabled Answered 3 March 2025UIN 32196

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, if he will take steps to standardise data security protocols for digital device donation, in the context of tackling digital exclusion and reducing e-waste.

Answered by Chris Bryant

The Government announced a device donation pilot on the 26th February, running to August 2025. We will be working with Digital Poverty Alliance (DPA) to refurbish end-of-life laptops from DSIT, DESNZ and DBT and distribute them to those who need them most.

The Government uses an accredited partner with ADISA certification to sanitise devices, meaning each is wiped securely before being collected.

DPA conducts additional verification for recipients of devices, including offering Data Erasure and Data Destruction Reports for processed devices.

We are looking into solutions for standardising protocols for disposal of data to encourage device donation by industry.

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