Interview with Robin Verhoog from Itreon: Collaboration with IT4Kids to Reduce E-Waste and Make a Social Impact
Robin Verhoog, Sales Manager at Itreon, discusses in this interview the collaboration between Itreon and IT4Kids. With a strong focus on corporate social responsibility, reducing e-waste, and supporting charities like IT4Kids, Robin provides insight into Itreon’s vision and approach. Read on to learn more about this inspiring partnership.
How does corporate social responsibility fit into Itreon’s business strategy?
“At Itreon, reducing e-waste is a top priority. Many companies have stacks of old IT equipment lying around, unsure of what to do with them. We offer a simple solution by collecting, recycling, and giving these products a second life. For example, we donate mice and keyboards to charities in Africa. Additionally, we collaborate with organizations such as ICT Maatwerk, which supports people with a distance to the labor market. In this way, we contribute to both the environment and society,” Robin explains.
How does corporate social responsibility fit into Itreon’s business strategy? “At Itreon, reducing e-waste is a top priority. Many companies have stacks of old IT equipment lying around, unsure of what to do with them. We offer a simple solution by collecting, recycling, and giving these products a second life. For example, we donate mice and keyboards to charities in Africa. Additionally, we collaborate with organizations such as ICT Maatwerk, which supports people with a distance to the labor market. In this way, we contribute to both the environment and society,” Robin explains.
What does the collaboration between Itreon and IT4Kids entail? Robin: “Our partnership with IT4Kids operates on two levels. First, we collect hardware and ensure it is properly processed. The residual value of these products is then donated to IT4Kids. Secondly, we help IT4Kids maximize the value of donated hardware. This collaboration is a great way for us to support their mission: giving children a better future through sports.”
Why did Itreon choose to collaborate with IT4Kids? Robin explains that Itreon and IT4Kids share the same values. “IT4Kids focuses on helping physically and financially vulnerable children through sports by repurposing ‘written-off hardware.’ This aligns perfectly with our vision of making a social impact. We always mention IT4Kids in our presentations and discussions with clients because it’s deeply embedded in our company’s DNA.”
What does this partnership mean for Itreon? “For us, this collaboration is significant because it positively impacts both the environment and society,” says Robin. “It enables us to contribute to the circular economy while supporting a great cause. It is also a valuable addition to our business strategy, raising awareness among our clients and partners about e-waste and the possibilities for reuse.”
What is the long-term goal of the collaboration? “Our long-term goal is to make a lasting impact by reducing e-waste and involving more companies in this process. We want to reuse or donate as much hardware as possible, contributing to both sustainability and social causes.”
What message would you like to share with other companies considering a similar partnership? “My message to companies is: get involved! So much IT equipment is gathering dust and losing value every month. Have these products collected and donated. You can also leverage hardware donations for marketing, such as mentions on IT4Kids’ social media. Together, we can raise awareness, reduce e-waste, and make a meaningful difference in children’s lives.”