The acquisition comes at a crucial time as the Middle East faces a growing e-waste crisis, exceeding 3 million metric tons annually, with the UAE ranking among the highest in per capita electronic waste generation. With the re-commerce industry in the region projected to surpass $30 billion by 2028, Basatne and Cartlow are poised to lead the transformation toward a circular and sustainable economy.

Cartlow has already recirculated over 1 million electronic devices, preventing 100,000 metric tons of CO₂ emissions, the equivalent of removing over 21,000 cars from the road for a year. By extending product lifecycles through its closed-loop circular ecosystem, Cartlow has generated over AED 500 million in value, reinforcing the economic and environmental benefits of sustainable commerce.

Cartlow’s cutting-edge solutions, now under Basatne Group, will accelerate the adoption of circularity and drive the development of a mature, scalable, and globally integrated ecosystem. With a vision to recirculate millions of devices across multiple channels, the company aims to solidify its position as a global leader in circular commerce and pave the way toward becoming one of the unicorns in the circular economy space.

“This acquisition represents a pivotal step toward shaping our global circular ecosystem,” said Ammar Aboulnasr, Founder and CEO of Basatne. “In 2023, we launched Ardroid, the UAE’s leading refurbishing facility, pioneering the region’s first AI and robotics-driven solution for data wiping and diagnostics. Today, with the integration of Cartlow, we are completing a fully closed-loop ecosystem, enabling markets to transact seamlessly and accelerating the transition toward a structured, scalable circular economy.”

“Joining forces with Basatne will allow us to expand our technological reach beyond the region and scale sustainable practices across global markets,” said Mohammad Sleiman, Founder and CEO of Cartlow. “The synergy between our platforms will revolutionize device lifecycle management and reinforce the region’s role as a leader in circular innovation. This collaboration enables us to take the next step in providing smart, scalable, and sustainable solutions for businesses and consumers alike.”

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What inspired the founding of Renie, and how has the company’s mission evolved?
The inspiration for Renie came from my experience at a previous company where sustainability was perceived as a cost centre rather than an income generator. Determined to challenge this mindset, I founded Renie – a tech company that supports waste management by enabling segregation at the source – placing consumer-facing smart bins that ensure materials are separated before reaching traditional waste management companies. Our mission has since evolved to integrate advanced technology, making recycling and sustainability accessible and financially beneficial, enabling businesses to transform waste into revenue-generating assets.

How does Renie’s tech-driven approach redefine waste management in the UAE and globally?
Renie is a technology company, not a traditional waste management firm. Its core focus lies in segregation at the source and data-driven monetization as a tech company. By integrating smart technology and advanced data analytics in its Smart Bins, Renie transforms waste into a valuable resource before it reaches waste management companies. In-house manufacturing in the UAE ensures high-quality innovation tailored to local needs while supporting the nation’s sustainability goals.

What innovative technologies or processes is Renie implementing to address waste management challenges?
Renie’s Smart Bins feature custom sensors and processors to collect and process waste-related data. This technology ensures traceability and accountability from source collection to recycling facilities. By partnering with companies like Tetra Pak and others, Renie supports large-scale recycling initiatives while driving consumer engagement and increased awareness through technology-driven waste segregation solutions.

How does Renie leverage data and AI to optimize waste collection, sorting, and recycling?
Renie’s Smart Bins utilise real-time tracking and data analysis to monitor waste collection from consumers. This tech-driven system aligns financial incentives with sustainable practices, fostering transparency and accountability. Data insights ensure effective waste segregation, optimise recycling processes, and influence consumer and business behaviours towards sustainability, delivering measurable environmental benefits.

What is Renie Rewards, and how does it incentivize users?
Renie Rewards is a core component of the company’s strategy to encourage sustainable practices. It monetises waste-related data, offering financial benefits and incentives to consumers for responsible waste segregation at the source. By financially rewarding sustainability, the programme motivates users to recycle more effectively while fostering long-term environmental responsibility.

What kind of rewards can users redeem, and how do these encourage sustainable practices?
Renie Rewards incentivises sustainable behaviour by allowing users to earn points for recycling items such as tetra packs, cans, and plastic. These points can be accumulated and redeemed for attractive rewards, including DU prepaid cards, smartphones, and other valuable incentives. Renie encourages users to actively participate in recycling efforts by providing tangible benefits and integrating sustainable practices into their daily routines. This reward system promotes environmental responsibility while encouraging a culture of sustainability by making recycling an engaging and rewarding experience for all users.

What steps is Renie taking to contribute to the UAE’s sustainability goals, such as achieving zero waste to landfill?
Renie’s tech-driven solution makes waste segregation at the source accessible and a standard practice across the UAE. By ensuring waste is separated before reaching waste management companies, Renie helps divert waste from landfills and promotes a circular economy. This approach aligns with the UAE’s zero-waste commitment and supports its Vision 2030 goals.

What educational initiatives have Renie launched to encourage sustainable waste habits among UAE residents?
Renie has launched several initiatives and campaigns to promote sustainable waste habits among UAE residents by integrating waste collection at accessible consumer points into everyday life.

• Schools: Renie installed its smart bins in over 250 schools, fostering recycling habits among students and instilling a culture of sustainability from an early stage.
  
• Government Collaborations: Partnering with Dubai Municipality, Renie deployed Smart Bins across government entities, collecting millions of bottles and reinforcing sustainability practices within public institutions.
  
• Hospitality Sector: Through a collaboration with Ajman Tourism, Renie engaged with hotels across the emirate to implement source segregation, paving the way for eco-friendly waste management in the hospitality industry.
  
• Residential Communities: In partnership with Ajman Municipality, Renie placed smart bins in residential towers while educating residents on the importance and ease of segregating waste at the source, creating a more sustainable urban environment.

These initiatives reflect the company’s ongoing commitment to building a sustainable future through collaboration, innovation, and community engagement.

Are there any unique partnerships or collaborations Renie has formed to drive innovation in the waste management sector?
Renie has established a unique and impactful partnership with Tetra Pak, a global leader in food processing and packaging solutions. This collaboration focuses on encouraging and increasing carton recycling across the MENA region through innovative waste stream solutions. The partnership aims to advance sustainability and promote environmentally responsible waste management practices at scale by combining Renie’s tech-driven segregation capabilities with Tetra Pak’s industry expertise.

What motivates you as the CEO of Renie, and how do you stay innovative in such a competitive sector?
The immense potential to redefine sustainability as a driver of growth and innovation is a constant source of motivation for me. At Renie, we are not just addressing today’s waste management challenges – we’re reshaping how communities and businesses perceive waste itself. The idea that small changes, like better segregation and recycling, can create positive ripple effects across industries, economies, and the planet inspires me every day.

Innovation thrives when challenges are seen as opportunities. By leveraging data-driven solutions and aligning sustainability with tangible financial benefits, I ensure Renie stays ahead of the curve. Our mission extends beyond addressing waste management issues in the UAE; we aim to set a global standard for how technology and collaboration can transform sustainability from responsibility into a universal practice, driving a cleaner, more resource-efficient future.

What trends in waste management are you most excited about on a global scale, and how is Renie positioned to capitalize on them?
Global trends such as the shift toward circular economies, advancements in waste-to-resource technologies, and the growing use of AI and data analytics in sustainability are particularly stimulating. The circular economy model, in particular, reimagines waste as a resource, creating endless opportunities for innovation and economic value.

Renie is uniquely positioned to capitalise on these trends by integrating cutting-edge technology into its consumer-facing Smart Bins. Its solutions utilise AI and real-time data analytics to streamline recycling processes, encourage waste segregation at the source, and transform waste into a monetisable asset. By making sustainability accessible, scalable, and profitable, Renie aligns with global trends and is also leading the charge in transforming waste management into a driver of both environmental and economic progress.

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make an impact in the sustainability space?
Aspiring entrepreneurs should focus on aligning sustainability with economic incentives, making eco-friendly practices accessible and compelling for businesses and consumers alike. Embrace innovation through technology—leveraging tools like data analytics, AI, and smart solutions can redefine sustainability from being seen as a responsibility to becoming a dynamic and profitable growth opportunity. Prioritise scalable solutions that address real-world challenges while generating measurable environmental and economic value. Finally, collaboration and adaptability are crucial for driving meaningful, lasting impact in the ever-evolving sustainability landscape.

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What inspired you to start ReflowX, and what is your company’s core mission?
Inspired by inefficiencies in oil and gas procurement and the environmental impact of surplus inventory, I started ReflowX. Our core mission is to create a centralized marketplace for surplus materials, promote sustainability, and reduce the need for new material production through circular economy principles.

Can you describe your vision for ReflowX over the next five years?
In five years, we envision ReflowX as the leading procurement hub in the energy sector. Our goal is to expand globally, integrate AI-driven procurement tools, and significantly reduce the industry’s carbon footprint by promoting the reuse of surplus inventory.

Can you share the journey of securing funding for ReflowX, and what are your plans for future funding rounds?
We have bootstrapped ReflowX so far. This has allowed us to maintain control over our vision. We are now opening our first funding round to support growth, expand our team, and enhance our reach within the energy industry.

What have been some of the key milestones and achievements for ReflowX since its inception?
Key milestones include launching our beta platform and securing partnerships with a key Dubai business organization. These achievements validate our approach and set the stage for future growth.

Which milestone are you most proud of, and why?
I’m most proud of our partnerships. They validate our business model, enhance our platform’s credibility, and expand our reach, paving the way for regional and global impact.

What key technologies power the ReflowX platform, and how do they differentiate your offering from competitors?
Our development team builds our platform from scratch using custom code tailored to user needs. This bespoke approach allows rapid adaptation, continuous innovation, and a superior user experience compared to competitors’ off-the-shelf solutions.

Can you discuss any recent technological innovations or updates that ReflowX has implemented?
We’ve integrated an RFQ (Request for Quotation) board, streamlining the procurement process and aligning with our goal to simplify inventory management and reduce waste.

Who is your target audience, and how do you ensure that ReflowX meets their needs effectively?
Our target audience includes oil and gas companies, suppliers, and manufacturers. We ensure their needs are met through continuous engagement, feedback gathering, and refining our platform to address procurement inefficiencies and surplus inventory management.

What strategies have you employed to penetrate the market and establish a strong presence?
We form strategic partnerships, leverage digital marketing, participate in industry events, and showcase platform benefits through case studies and success stories to build credibility and attract users.

Can you describe ReflowX’s business model and how it generates revenue?
ReflowX generates revenue through transaction fees on sales and value-added services like logistic support and pre-purchase inspections, ensuring sustainability and growth.

What are your plans for scaling the business, and what key factors will drive your growth?
Scaling plans include expanding platform capabilities, entering new markets, and enhancing marketing efforts. The key growth drivers are technological innovation, strategic partnerships, and a strong focus on customer satisfaction and sustainability.

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The initiative will nurture the next generation of innovators as they develop solutions to address both regional and global sustainability challenges. PepsiCo and SABIC have partnered with AstroLabs, as well as with other strategic partners to create the program, which was announced at COP28 in the UAE. 

For the first round of the Mega Green Accelerator program, the priorities will focus on innovation in the circular economy, as well as transitions in clean energy, water, and agriculture. Entrepreneurs in the program will receive six-months of mentorship with industry experts, access to networks and business opportunities, provided by the program partners and some of the most prominent business leaders in the region. At the end of the program, one winning company will be awarded seed funding to continue its expansion.

Established and revenue-generating start-ups that are developing business models related to processes, products, and/or technologies and support the program’s key focus areas are invited to apply. Applications for the six-month mentorship program are open until March 15th at https://astrolabs.com/themegagreenaccelerator/.

“The Mega Green Accelerator is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation. We’re witnessing a growing number of young entrepreneurs in the region venturing into disruptive ideas. Research indicates their need for more holistic infrastructure, resources, funding, and mentorship to scale these initiatives. We already know that innovative climate technologies are necessary to slow down and adapt to the impact of climate change and extreme weather. The potential for cultivating a network of MENA-based innovators addressing the most pressing sustainability challenges in the region is phenomenal and this has all the makings of a story that can scale further wins on multiple fronts and for multiple stakeholders – but most importantly, for our shared planet,” said Eugene Willemsen, CEO, Africa, Middle East, and South Asia, PepsiCo and CEO of International Beverages.

“As the Gulf addresses climate change, the region is increasingly becoming a global testbed for innovative solutions that meet the current demand for sustainability. We have partnered with PepsiCo, SABIC, and other strategic partners to drive an influx of regional and global businesses; this collaboration is dedicated to accelerating the development of these businesses within the Gulf’s sustainability sector, supporting them to expand, operate and grow across the region. In line with our vision to build sectors, we are excited to steer development in the region’s climate tech sector by connecting diverse businesses that can drive innovation in this strategic industry – helping these companies capitalize on the right opportunities, with the right people, and at the right time in this sector,” said Roland Daher, Chief Executive Officer of AstroLabs.

Strategic investment partners like Dubai Future District Fund, Venture Souq and Shurooq Partners will provide platforms for investment opportunities, mentorship in raising capital, and networking opportunities. They will also inform startup criteria and participate in the selection process to maximize investment success.

Ecosystem partners London Business School Entrepreneurship Club, Berytech, American University of Cairo Venture Lab, SOSV, Clyde & Co, Intersect Hub, SEE Institute, the Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park and the Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection will source applicants through their networks, amplify Accelerator knowledge and communicate progress through their channels. Schneider Electric will support the Accelerator as a prize partner, participating in the final selection of participants.

Investment in climate change mitigation solutions is critical in the MENA region, where temperatures are warming almost two times faster than the global average. That elevates the importance of private sector initiatives that support the UAE’s bold sustainability goals.

Apply for the Mega Green Accelerator at: https://astrolabs.com/themegagreenaccelerator/.

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H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy for UAE said “The circular economy transition is of great importance to the UAE government to promote sustainable economic development, in line with our wise leadership’s vision. We seek to move forward in this direction by strengthening our strategic partnership with the private sector, various stakeholders and leading global companies to achieve our goals in this regard. The signing of the strategic agreement with the Intesa San Paolo group marks a key turning point in enhancing the UAE economy’s competitiveness and consolidating its position as a leading circular economy at regional and global levels.”

The UAE chose Intesa San Paolo as a partner in its circular economy transition thanks to the Group’s proven capabilities in supporting startups and existing companies in the field in the Middle East region.

Intesa Sanpaolo Bank, through its branches in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and the Intesa Sanpaolo Innovation Center, will cooperate with the Ministry in designing and launching relevant policies to encourage the adoption of circular economy practices, promote innovative business models, and develop an ecosystem comprising institutions, universities, research centers, companies and startups.

The first phase of the project, which includes environmental mapping and identifying the opportunities in the UAE and stakeholders, will benefit from the participation of the Cariplo Factory Innovation Centre, which was established in partnership with the Intesa San Paolo Innovation Center of the Milan-based Circular Economy Laboratory.

Future measures include strengthening the partnership between Intesa San Paolo and the UAE Circular Economy Council, which was established by the UAE government to develop and implement policies for the transition towards a circular economy. The Council seeks to explore the possibility of establishing a “Circular Economy Laboratory” in the UAE for promoting circular economy models within the local economy.

Intesa Sanpaolo will support the structuring and financing of local circular economy projects by leveraging 8 billion euros allocated to circular model financing as outlined in the Action Plan 2022-2025. In addition, the Intesa San Paolo Innovation Center will provide guidance through its Circular Economy Laboratory, acceleration programs for startups, and support from venture capital funds provided by its subsidiary Neva SGR.

Mauro Michelo, Head of Corporate Banking and Investment at IMI, Intesa San Paolo Group, said “We are proud to partner with the UAE and put our unique expertise at its disposal to enhance its journey towards a circular economy. Our branches in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are cooperating with the Intesa San Paolo Innovation Center to support companies and startups in this field. These companies in the UAE have access to capital, as well as the appropriate conditions for growth, especially within the framework of the circular economy.”

Paolo Maria Vittorio Grande, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Intesa Sanpaolo Innovation Center said “Our circular economy team has been working with the UAE government since 2018, capitalizing on our experience in implementing several initiatives that support the circular economy model in the Middle East and North Africa. We are honored to be chosen by the UAE Ministry of Economy to provide assistance in the field of circular economy. It encourages us to continue our mission of enabling institutions and companies of all sizes, in addition to startups, with the best tools to understand and deal with the radical transformation that the circular economy creates.”

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The virtual event was hosted in collaboration with Nestlé, Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi and the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an, the challenge tasked the competing teams with developing either new & recyclable materials for packaging, production and design, or an innovation that could enable society, governments and corporations to encourage responsible behavior toward a single-use plastic-free future.

The Re. team were selected as the winners for their innovative water bottles that aim to redesign and reimagine the future of drinking water, while tackling the issue of plastic pollution.

Dr Lamya Nawaf Fawwaz, Executive Director of Brand and Strategic Initiatives at Masdar, said “I would like to congratulate all the teams who competed in the Ecothon Innovation Challenge and created innovative solutions to tackle some of the world’s most difficult waste problems using circular economy principles. The Ecothonaims to develop participants’ skills and knowledge to enable them to become future business leaders and innovators, and the ideas presented highlight the important role that youth can play in supporting the global sustainability agenda.”

“Masdar is proud to be taking a leading role in preparing the youth to become future sustainability leaders under the Youth 4 Sustainability platform,” she added.

Sivakumar Shangumavel, Nestlé Regional Safety, Health, Environment and Security Manager in the Middle East & North Africa said “We are proud to be collaborating with Masdar and other partners on this Ecothon journey that provides opportunities for both youth mentoring and encouraging a greener future,” he added.

The “Qright” team were awarded second place for their technological solution to influence change in consumers shopping behavior, while “CirEco+” came third for their application that encourages shoppers to use reusable bags in exchange for rewards and a fast self-checkout feature in stores.  Both of these teams will receive support from Masdar and BP start-up accelerator The Catalyst, with the aim of incubating their ideas and innovations.

The circular economy topic was selected to provide participants with the opportunity to propose solutions to a real-world problem. Reducing waste and the emissions associated with the development of new products makes an important contribution to action on climate change. Plastic pollution is one of the world’s most challenging sustainability issues, and as waste management problems have intensified across the globe, there has been an increasing need to develop and re-design products based on the principles of the circular economy.

The teams that were not placed in the competition will also receive support from Innovate4Good, a platform that enables the next generation of sustainability and technology for good start-ups. These include:

• FRA: An adapted water dispenser that incentivizes households and community spaces to reduce their water bottles purchases. The smart dispenser uses the Internet of Things (IoT) to measure water consumption of each member of the household or community group.
• Qayyim: A multi-function platform aimed at improving the sustainability measures deployed in restaurants by providing consultations and engaging the businesses with sustainable suppliers offering preferential rates.
• Eco-Cart: A foldable trolley with detachable containers that is designed to be cost-efficient, sustainable and convenient.
• LPI (Less Plastic Initiative): A solution to actively improve consumers’ behaviors toward plastic by bringing together consumers, transportation and collecting centers for recycling.
• WAA’I: An app-based service that provides a collection service for plastic from residential properties. The plastic is sorted and recycled. The app also shows people eco-friendly items to buy.

More than 45 Future Sustainability Leaders, in eight separate teams, participated in the Ecothon, receiving approximately 22 hours of mentoring and training on design thinking and insights for innovation, ideation, prototyping and pitching to develop and refine their innovative ideas in the circular economy. The winning team will be connected with potential incubators for mentorship and to help them advance their idea.

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