S2Say It – Insights from David Woodriff on E-Waste Management
S2S Group, January 2025
S2Say It is a blog series where members of the S2S Group team share their insights, experiences, and thought leadership in the world of secure IT asset disposal and e-waste management.
In this edition, we sit down with David Woodriff, our Group Commercial Director. With over 30 years of experience in the recycling industry and a key role in driving new business and margins at S2S Group.
David offers a unique perspective on the current challenges and opportunities in e-waste management. From the evolution of WEEE Recycling to the role of cutting-edge technologies like AI, David’s insights are not to be missed.

What’s your role at S2S Group?
As Group Commercial Director, David is responsible for bringing new business opportunities to S2S Group while increasing margins for the company.
What inspired you to get involved in e-waste management, and why is it a critical issue today?
With over 30 years of experience in the waste recycling industry, David found a fresh challenge in 2002 when the WEEE Directive was implemented.
“The directive created an employment opportunity at a point in my career when I was seeking a new challenge. I was excited to be involved in a new initiative within the recycling sector from the outset and I have never looked back since,” he shares.
David believes electronics are essential in day-to-day life, which makes the safe and effective recycling of WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) even more crucial.
“It’s also fascinating to see how WEEE is constantly changing and how the challenges this presents are overcome.”
What are the biggest challenges the team faces when managing e-waste, and how do you work to overcome them?
Managing e-waste comes with its own set of challenges, especially regarding personal data security and evolving product designs.
“The management of personal data is fundamental and highly prized. It is crucial that it is securely managed and effectively destroyed to ensure it doesn’t reach unauthorised parties,” says David.
S2S Group provides proven, accredited services to ensure data destruction is done securely, with certificates issued to verify compliance.
David also highlights two growing challenges:
“At S2S Group, we ensure staff are trained to spot, remove, and safely store batteries before they’re sent to approved downstream partners for processing,” explains David.
How do you see advancements in technology, like AI or robotics, shaping the future of e-waste recycling and disposal?
David believes the role of technology will only grow in the e-waste recycling industry.
“AI and robotics will play an even greater role in the coming years. AI is already used within some of the technologies we rely on, such as modern smartphones, and suppliers are talking about investing in robotics to improve productivity and safety.”
What steps can individuals and businesses take to reduce their e-waste footprint effectively?
David emphasises the importance of recycling with a professional, fully certified company like S2S Group.
“E-waste must not be discarded as general waste. Proper recycling ensures components and materials are reused, reducing the need for virgin materials.”
For businesses, he advises checking that your chosen recycler has the correct permits, licences, and experience.
“Otherwise, fines could be levied against the business generating the e-waste,” he warns.
Stay Ahead with S2S Group
At S2S Group, we pride ourselves on leading the way in secure and sustainable e-waste recycling. As David highlighted, the future of e-waste management lies in innovation, education, and partnerships that prioritise both data security and environmental responsibility.
Are you ready to make a difference in your e-waste management strategy? Learn more about our recycling services or contact us today for a consultation and free quote today. Make sure to connect with David on LinkedIn to discuss your ITAD requirements.
Stay tuned for more insights and expertise from the team at S2S Group in future editions of S2Say It!