Google is transitioning its media sanitization approach to a layered encryption strategy starting in November 2025. This move abandons the previous "brute force disk erase" method which is no longer sustainable due to modern storage technology. The new approach utilizes cryptographic erasure, a method recognized by NIST. This process involves securely deleting the encryption keys that protect user data, rendering it unreadable and unrecoverable. Cryptographic erasure is faster and more efficient than overwriting entire drives. Google implements this with multiple security layers and independent verification mechanisms. This innovation also enhances sustainability by reducing the need to physically destroy storage devices. Reusing hardware and recovering rare earth materials from end-of-life media are key benefits. This change reflects Google's commitment to user security, industry standards, and environmental responsibility. The company believes this is the right path for users, the industry, and the planet.