RLA 2025 Highlights—How Data Centers Are Redefining Resource Efficiency with Memory Pooling

RLA 2025 Highlights—How Data Centers Are Redefining Resource Efficiency with Memory Pooling

At the Reverse Logistics Association (RLA) Conference & Expo last week, Sean Magann, Chief Commercial Officer at Sims Lifecycle Services (SLS), joined industry leaders to discuss a major shift in data center infrastructure management—memory pooling.

Traditionally, IT infrastructure has been built with peak capacity in mind, leading to over-engineered systems with redundant unused capacity during non-peak times. But as cloud storage and AI adoption drive exponential growth, hyperscalers continually seek more efficient models.

One solution? Compute Express Link (CXL) memory pooling.

CXL allows memory to be pooled and used as a shared resource across multiple servers. This allows fewer servers to be used because peak loads can be managed through the shared bank of memory.

Better yet, SLS is helping hyperscale data centers recover, test and redeploy their own used memory modules back into CXL deployments. In just two years, SLS has processed and reintroduced 2.5 million memory modules for use in CXL memory pooling, delivering hundreds of millions of dollars in value back to its hyperscale customers.

Mr. Magann shared how memory pooling, powered by these remanufactured DIMM modules, is allowing hyperscalers to shift from a default “buy new” model to one that prioritizes circularity, while reducing hardware costs and cutting e-waste, all while improving performance.

This approach aligns with SLS’ ITAD plus strategy, which goes beyond traditional disposition by focusing on maximizing reuse, remanufacturing, and circular economy solutions. Instead of simply recycling components, SLS works with data centers to deliver the highest possible value from their retired assets, whether through redeployment, resale, or reintegration into advanced infrastructure models like CXL.

At RLA, the message was clear: Data centers have the opportunity to rethink IT asset disposition as an opportunity for resource optimization, not just recycling. Memory pooling is already changing the landscape, and SLS is at the forefront of this transition.