Wildanet launches KIT|24 to re-home unwanted business tech into much needed IT for families

KIT|24 is a new initiative launched by Wildanet, the Cornwall-based gigabit-capable broadband provider in partnership with LEAP. The scheme seeks to tackle both the digital divide and the mounting e-waste problem by collecting 2,400 unwanted devices from local organisations and re-homing them. These 2400 devices may have ended up in landfill but now are being re-homed through network of charity and community-based organisations.

This process is facilitated through partnerships with Good Things Foundation (a social change charity that has supported over 3.5 million people to improve their lives through digital), Reconome (experts in secure data wiping and device refurbishment) and Cornish-based IT recycling and refurb specialists Trusted Tech.

Governance of digital tech waste is overseen by The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment or WEEE regulations of 2013. Meeting this governance can be complex and costly when going it alone. Thankfully Reconome and The Good Things Foundation are positioned to simplify and streamline the process. 

KIT|24 offers organisations a free secure and responsible method of repurposing eligible devices and obtain certification of a compliant data wipe using software accredited by the UK National Cyber Security Centre and adhering to the Ministry of Defence standards for data erasure.

Earlier this year Wildanet became first UK based AltNet (Alternative Network Provider) to become a Certified B Corporation. The prestigious certification recognises Wildanet's commitment to operating as a force for good, prioritising sustainability, ethical practices and social responsibility as part of its successful ‘profit with purpose’ approach to business.

KIT|24 has been launched to coincide with B Corp month, the global celebration during March showcasing how current and future B Corp businesses can grow their positive impact.

Helen Wylde-Archibald, Wildanet CEO, said: "Wildanet is delighted to launch the KIT|24 program in collaboration with Good Things Foundation and Reconome. As a recently certified B Corporation, the KIT|24 initiative is a great example of how Wildanet is working to make a positive difference through our ongoing commitment to sustainability, supporting our local communities and our core mission to promote digital inclusion for all.

“The UK is one of largest emitters of electronic waste per capita in the world and several studies suggest that the UK could become the world’s largest e-waste contributor as early as the end of 2024. What’s more, there is estimated to be £5.6billion of unwanted tech going to waste in the UK that could be re-homed or recycled. And yet, millions of people in the UK remain digitally excluded through lack of access to a device.

“KIT|24 seeks to bridge these two issues. By repurposing surplus IT equipment, we not only support local businesses and organisations to reduce electronic waste but also help bridge the digital divide by providing access to technology for those in need. We are excited to see the positive impact this program will have on communities across Cornwall and Devon."

Matt Hocking, LEAP Creative Sustainability Officer and Founder, said: “As a creative business that takes pride in both our e-purchases (which happen to always be refurbished Macs) and responsible next life this initiative continues our close partnership with Wildanet and is essential to do. Especially within our region. 

As the statistic emphasises 1 in 4 young people in the UK (16- to 25-year-olds) lack access to a laptop, tablet or Chromebook at home. Join us in making a difference for others and clearing out your old kit.”

Any organisations (based in Cornwall or Devon) that have unwanted IT equipment are encouraged to visit www.wildanet.com/kit24 for more details and to register before 30 April 2024. Eligible devices include laptops, Chromebooks, desktops and network and server equipment. All devices must be in working condition and not broken beyond economical repair.

If you represent a charity or community organisation that could benefit from accessing refurbished devices as part of this scheme (and others like it), you can find out more and register to join the National Digital Inclusion Network at https://www.goodthingsfoundation.org/network/about/