Dublin to host Europe’s 1st Conference of Computer Refurbishers and Resellers

The electrical refurbishment and reuse company RECOSI (Regional and European Co-Operative for Social Industry), in partnership with the International Computer Refurbisher Summit (ICRS), is to host Europe’s first conference of computer refurbishers and resellers October 29-30^th in the Royal Marine Hotel in Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin.

Sponsored by Microsoft, the conference brings together IT and electronic refurbishers and resellers from across Europe and the U.S. to showcase new developments and examples of best practices in this fledgling but burgeoning industry and to explore the challenges and opportunities that Ireland and Europe face as consumption of devices and equipment continues to rise and the issue of how to dispose of or reuse them safely and economically becomes more pressing.

In its approach to this problem, RECOSI has adopted an unconventional commercial model that brings together specialist companies such as Microsoft, ICRS and others into partnership with social enterprises that refurbish, resell or donate used, licensed and guaranteed electrical items that would otherwise end up as Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE). In recognition of public concerns over misuse of data, RECOSI has also engaged with Tabernus, the global leader in proven certified data erasure, to ensure that all software and data is securely wiped from each device. 

Speaking at the announcement of the conference, Sean Nicholson, Worldwide Manager for Microsoft Refurbisher programs, said: “Microsoft’s Registered Refurbisher Program is pleased to sponsor this inaugural event and encourage knowledge sharing between European refurbishers from both the commercial and the non-profit sector.”

Martin Reddy, CEO of RECOSI, said that “this is the first ever conference of its kind held in Europe and we in RECOSI are delighted to bring together the experts in this field. Companies such as ICRS and Microsoft whose names are synonymous with the refurbishment and reuse of electrical goods across the rest of the world will share their knowledge and expertise in this area.”

The conference, which will bring together recycling professionals and experts, will highlight new developments and explore innovative approaches which ensure that electronic waste is minimised in ways that create both social value and real opportunities for businesses to succeed in the industry.

For more information about the conference go to: http://www.recosi.net/conference/