Author(s): Kaustuv Choudhury
Abstract:
The exponential acceleration of global digitisation has generated a twin crisis at the intersection of environmental sustainability and cybersecurity: the escalating volume of electronic waste (e-waste) and the systematic exposure of sensitive data resulting from improper device retirement. According to the United Nations Global E-waste Monitor 2024, global e-waste generation reached a record 62 million tonnes in 2022 and is projected to rise to 82 million tonnes by 2030, vastly outstripping documented formal recycling rates. At the same time, widespread reliance on outdated data-destruction practices—such as unnecessary physical shredding or ineffective manual file deletion—compromises data security and drives linear consumption by preventing hardware refurbishment. This study synthesises global e-waste metrics, modern storage mechanics, and institutional data sanitisation standards, specifically contrasting NIST SP 800-88 Revision 2 governance frameworks with IEEE 2883-2022 technical specifications. By analysing consumer behavioural dynamics and flash memory architecture, this report establishes a unified strategic framework for governments, enterprise IT asset disposition (ITAD) programs, and global citizens to align robust cyber hygiene with circular economic principles.
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