BNP Paribas has opened a new IT refurbishment and remarketing centre in the Yvelines department (78), reinforcing its commitment to addressing the growing challenge of electronic waste in Europe. This investment aligns with BNP Paribas' commitment to advancing the circular economy by extending the lifecycle of IT equipment such as laptops, desktops, mobile phones and tablets.

This centre is operated by BNP Paribas 3 Step IT, a joint venture launched in 2019 between the professional equipment financing subsidiary of BNP Paribas, BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions, and the Finnish company 3stepIT, a Nordic leader in circular technology services.

BNP Paribas 3 Step IT aims to gradually increase the processing capacity of the centre, which could reach up to 400 000 reprocessed IT equipment per year, with a first target of 100 000 equipment by the end of 2025.

With this new centre, BNP Paribas 3 Step IT allows the Bank to provide more efficient and sustainable IT lifecycle management services to its clients across Europe, as well as to its own entities. The centre will also operate a ‘buyback’ service (also known as IT Asset Disposition or ITAD) where businesses can send their decommissioned IT equipment knowing it will be either refurbished or responsibly recycled, with data securely and fully erased.

Carmen Ene, CEO of BNP Paribas 3 Step IT, states: "The investment in this centre underscores BNP Paribas' commitment to advancing the circular economy in Europe, aligning with the European Union's ambitious goals to promote circularity and sustainable resource use. This also marks a significant milestone for BNP Paribas 3 Step IT, reinforcing our mission to help clients maximise the value of their technology while reducing electronic waste."

Neil Pein, CEO of BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions, adds: "This is a major step for BNP Paribas, strengthening its commitment to supporting clients in their transition to a more resource-efficient and low-carbon use of their IT assets. This centre also upholds a responsible employment policy, which values and supports people with disabilities, those in social reintegration, and older adults."