State of Oklahoma IT disposal program saves taxpayer dollars, enhances cybersecurity efforts

The Office of Management and Enterprise Services is providing a new program designed to save the state money while enhancing cybersecurity measures when decommissioning outdated state technology. The OMES IT Asset Disposition program focuses on securely refurbishing or disposing of older devices to ensure data protection and cost efficiency.

Since February 2024, OMES has partnered with Mender, a global ITAD company, to implement a new system for managing surplus IT assets like cellphones, laptops and desktops from Oklahoma’s state agencies and other affiliates. Through this partnership, OMES has achieved significant cost savings and strengthened its approach to data security.

“OMES selected Mender, an R2-certified company, because they adhere to the strict guidelines required of responsible and sustainable electronic waste disposal,” OMES Capital Assets Management Administrator Nathan Wald said. “Breaking down IT assets is a complex, intricate process. Facilities like Mender help us break down IT equipment and allow the precious metals like gold and nickel found inside the devices to be harvested.”

According to Mender’s two reports, OMES has:

• Generated a total year-to-date cost savings of $381,000.
• Secured the proper disposal of 700 kilograms of potentially harmful materials.
• Processed two to three semitrucks full of surplus IT materials monthly, reducing waste while maximizing asset value.

The first step in OMES’ ITAD program is to process all surplus IT devices on-site before deciding whether to recycle or refurbish the equipment. When refurbishment is not possible, the device is sent to Mender for responsible end-of-life processing, ensuring state data is properly handled and destroyed according to cybersecurity protocols.

In conjunction with financial and security benefits, the program also helps refurbish salvageable parts of electronics. OMES prioritizes the refurbishment step of the ITAD program and receives a steady flow of surplus state IT assets for repair. Moreover, Mender’s commitment to donate 5% of the profits from the state’s surplus IT assets to the Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Foundation further extends the program’s positive impact.

In addition to precious metals, electronics are made with hazardous materials like lead, mercury, cadmium and plastic that end up in Oklahoma’s landfills and waterways when they are incorrectly disposed of. IT asset waste contributes to 70% of overall toxic waste, but ITAD prevents harmful substances from polluting these areas.

Programs like ITAD ensure Oklahoma maximizes the value of its IT investments while minimizing risks associated with outdated equipment. This proactive approach has positioned Oklahoma as a leader in IT asset management, with fewer than 10 states nationwide implementing comparable programs.

“A program that saves the state money, while responsibly recycling and finding a purpose for outdated equipment, is a win-win,” said state Sen. Darcy Jech, R-Kingfisher, who serves as the vice chairman for the Senate Technology and Telecommunications Committee. “These efforts bring about more efficiency and allow us to incorporate cost savings when we look to upgrade equipment. I appreciate these efforts and look forward to finding more efficiencies throughout government to put taxpayer dollars to better use.”

Christa Helfrey
christa.helfrey@omes.ok.gov

The Office of Management and Enterprise Services provides financial, property, purchasing, human resources and information technology services to all state agencies. Our vision: Provide excellent service, expert guidance and continuous improvement in support of our partners’ goals. For more information, visit oklahoma.gov/omes.