WITH the increasing drive for business to demonstrate green credentials, the ramifications of what to do with redundant IT equipment is becoming a major issue.

The risks associated with disposing of old hard drives that contain sensitive company information are obvious and Manchester city council are undertaking a study into the IT recycling needs of business.

The council recycles its computer equipment through suppliers and manufacturers, as per the European Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive, but smaller firms are less familiar with the obligations of the directive.

A council spokesman said: "We are asking businesses if there is any help we could provide, and if businesses are aware of how their waste disposal costs are going to escalate."

To take part in this consultation call the council on 0161 234 1383.