From Landfill to Lifeline: How Tech-Takeback’s October Tech Amnesty Campaign Is Turning Obsolete Devices into Community Strength
On October 14th, 2025, Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10. On the very same day, the world will mark International E-waste Day. This coincidence highlights a pressing challenge: as support ends, an estimated 240 million devices worldwide will instantly become obsolete. At the same time, over 100 million more sit idle in offices, hoarded due to data security concerns or lack of clear disposal routes.
If unmanaged, this wave of end-of-life tech will only add to the growing global e-waste crisis. Technology is increasingly being built to break, not to last, and without effective reuse systems, valuable devices are lost to landfill instead of extending their lifecycle.
Why Reuse Matters
At Tech-takeback, we believe devices deserve a second life. Our secure collection and data-erasure services ensure businesses don’t have to hoard equipment out of fear of data leaks. Instead, technology is safely processed, refurbished wherever possible, and redistributed back into local communities.
For those digitally excluded, receiving a refurbished laptop is transformative. It enables individuals to access online training courses, employment opportunities, education, health care services, housing and financial applications. For families, it allows children to complete homework, access online learning and build essential digital skills. Isolated individuals can connect with loved ones and access entertainment, reducing loneliness and exclusion.
Why secure data erasure matters for businesses
When Microsoft ends support for Windows 10 on October 14th, 2025, millions of devices will no longer receive critical updates or security patches. For SMEs and local businesses, this poses a serious risk. Obsolete devices left in cupboards or storerooms aren’t just wasted assets—they are potential data leaks waiting to happen.
That’s why secure, certified data erasure is essential. Simply discarding or hoarding old equipment leaves sensitive customer information, financial records, and internal data vulnerable.
Tech-Takeback’s collection services ensures complete peace of mind:
– Devices are collected securely from your workplace and transported to our warehouse.
– All equipment is data-erased to industry standards, with full certification provided.
– Where possible, devices are then refurbished and given a second life, supporting people facing digital exclusion.
And this October, to mark the end of Windows 10 support and International E-waste Day, Tech-Takeback is offering FREE collections and data erasure for businesses in London and the South East of England. It’s a unique opportunity to protect your organisation, support your community, and keep technology out of landfill.
Tackling Digital Exclusion through Refurbished Devices
Digital exclusion occurs when individuals or groups lack access to the technology, connectivity, or skills needed to fully participate in society. Without a device, people may struggle to apply for jobs, access healthcare, complete education, or stay connected with loved ones.
Last year, Tech-Takeback ran a CIWM-funded pilot project that demonstrated the transformative impact of refurbished devices. Sixty laptops were funded and redistributed to individuals facing digital exclusion, creating £258,000 of Social Value, an average of £43,000 per device. Read more about the CIWM pilot project: Up to £346 Million of Social Value Created as a Result of Technology Reuse .
The pilot showed how giving devices a second life can open doors to education, employment, healthcare, and social inclusion, proving that reuse not only protects the environment but also strengthens communities.
Why Businesses Should Act Now
By participating in the Tech Amnesty Campaign, businesses can prevent devices from contributing to the growing e-waste crisis while ensuring that sensitive data is securely erased. At the same time, their surplus devices can be refurbished and redistributed, helping to close the digital divide and support local communities. Companies also receive clear reporting on the social and environmental impact of their donations, demonstrating measurable value for both the business and society.
Get Involved
Every unused device is either a wasted opportunity or a chance to change a life. Tech-Takeback is offering FREE collections and certified data erasure this October for businesses in London and the South East of England. By participating, your organisation can protect its data, reduce e-waste, and empower individuals facing digital exclusion. Together, we can turn obsolete technology into opportunities. Get connected with us on whatimpact.com: https://app.whatimpact.com/social-enterprises/10670889
