About Us
The story behind Lansing Tech Sustainability and Recycling
Local Expertise, Global Mission
LTSR began with two local technology consultants who saw firsthand the growing problem of e-waste through their client engagements throughout the Lansing area. What started as a concern became a calling.
Our Story
LTSR was born from countless client visits where we witnessed outdated but functional technology being discarded without consideration for its environmental impact or potential value. As technology consultants, we understood the rapid pace of technological advancement – but also recognized the hidden costs of premature disposal.
During our various engagements across the Lansing area, we consistently encountered businesses, organizations, and individuals struggling with the same question: "What do we do with our old tech?"
We saw equipment with sensitive data being improperly discarded. We found functional devices being replaced simply because they were a generation behind. And we witnessed hazardous materials like CRT monitors, batteries, and circuit boards being treated as ordinary trash.
That's when we decided to transform our concern into action. Leveraging our technical expertise and passion for sustainability, we established Lansing Tech Sustainability and Recycling with a simple but powerful mission: to save the planet, one device at a time.
What Drives Us
Saving the Planet, One CRT at a Time
Every single device matters. A single CRT monitor improperly disposed of can leak several pounds of lead into soil and groundwater. We believe that the journey to global sustainability starts with individual actions – salvaging that single monitor, recovering those few batteries, or refurbishing that "outdated" laptop.
Our approach isn't about massive industrial processing – it's about careful, individual attention to each piece of technology that comes through our doors. Every device has a story, and we're committed to ensuring that story doesn't end in a landfill.
Security as a Priority
As technology consultants, we understand that data security doesn't end when equipment is retired. Many organizations dispose of technology without properly addressing the sensitive information it contains – creating both environmental and security risks.
Our background in IT consulting gives us a unique perspective on secure data destruction. We don't just recycle technology; we ensure that any sensitive information is completely and verifiably eliminated before proceeding with refurbishment or material recovery.
Community Connection
As Lansing locals, we're invested in the health and prosperity of our community. We recognize that the digital divide continues to affect many families and organizations in our area, which is why we prioritize refurbishment and redirection whenever possible.
Functional equipment that might be considered "outdated" in a corporate environment can still provide tremendous value to schools, non-profits, and families. By connecting retiring technology with new users, we extend device lifecycles while strengthening our community.
The Problem We're Solving
Hazardous Materials
A single CRT monitor contains approximately 4-8 pounds of lead. One smartphone battery can contaminate 100,000 liters of water if improperly disposed of. Circuit boards contain beryllium, cadmium, and mercury. These aren't materials that should "just be thrown out" – yet too often, they are.
Data Security Vulnerabilities
Discarded hard drives, phones, and other storage devices often contain recoverable sensitive information. Without proper data destruction, organizations and individuals risk serious privacy breaches and compliance violations.
Wasted Resources
Many devices are discarded while still functional or easily repairable. Even truly obsolete equipment contains valuable materials – including gold, silver, copper, and rare earth elements – that can and should be recovered rather than buried in a landfill.
Our Approach
1. Assess
Every item we receive undergoes thorough evaluation to determine whether it can be refurbished, needs parts harvesting, or requires end-of-life processing.
2. Secure
All data-bearing devices undergo certified data destruction processes, with verification documentation provided to the original owner.
3. Refurbish
Whenever possible, we refurbish and redirect technology to new homes where it can continue to provide value, particularly focusing on local schools and non-profits.
4. Recycle
Equipment that cannot be reused is carefully disassembled, with components sorted for proper recycling through certified downstream partners.
5. Educate
We provide resources and workshops to help organizations develop sustainable technology lifecycles and responsible disposal practices.
6. Report
Clients receive detailed documentation of their equipment's handling, including data destruction certificates and environmental impact metrics.
We don't just see discarded technology. We see the potential for a second life, the materials that can be recovered, and the harm that can be prevented. Saving the planet happens one decision, one device at a time. That old CRT monitor gathering dust? That's not trash – that's an opportunity to make a difference.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Whether you have a single device or an entire office of retiring equipment, your decision to recycle responsibly matters.