Carmen Ene talks circular economy, sustainability and diversity in tech in new AFC podcast episode

Asset Finance Connect’s latest episode of the European Equipment Finance Podcast is now available to stream here and across major platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and Amazon. Sponsored by Alfa, this episode features an in-depth conversation with Carmen Ene, CEO of BNP Paribas 3stepIT, offering valuable insights into sustainability, the circular economy, and leadership in the asset finance and IT sectors.

A circular vision for the future

In a conversation hosted by AFC’s Richard O’Donohue, Carmen Ene articulates how BNP Paribas 3stepIT is pioneering circular technology lifecycle management. At the heart of the discussion is the idea that net zero is impossible without the circular economy, a view that underpins the joint venture’s mission of extending the life of IT assets through responsible acquisition, management and refurbishment.

“Our core business is enabling organisations to manage their IT assets sustainably and efficiently,” said Ene. “We help businesses acquire, manage, and then refurbish assets to give them a second life, reselling nine out of ten returned devices.”

This innovative model reduces the need for new production, with 85% of a device’s emissions produced during manufacturing. Ene highlighted third-party research showing that BNP Paribas 3stepIT’s model reduces laptop emissions by 17% and cuts ecological footprint by 24%.

Legislation and market shifts driving change

Ene pointed to France’s regulatory leadership in mandating the use of refurbished equipment in public tenders and introducing labels to certify second-life products. “We see this spreading across Europe into the Nordics and the UK, and creating exciting growth potential for the circular economy,” she said.

As public and commercial sectors alike focus more on cost-efficiency and responsible IT consumption, Carmen emphasized that the economic and operational benefits – not just environmental impact – are key drivers. “This isn’t just about saving the planet. It’s about financial and security benefits that make sense to businesses today.”

Diversity, AI, and leadership in tech

The podcast also turns to personal reflections from Ene, one of the few female leaders in the European technology and finance space. She candidly shares her journey, from IBM to leading BNP Paribas 3stepIT, and the importance of male allies, mentorship, and encouraging more women into AI and tech-related roles.

“In AI, where human-centric skills are crucial, women have a significant opportunity,” said Ene. “Empathy, communication, and understanding are more vital than ever.”

She also offered a thoughtful perspective on merging corporate cultures, referencing the “marriage under the stars” between BNP Paribas and the entrepreneurial Finnish firm 3stepIT: “Despite differences, we shared the same North Star – delivering value to customers, to our employees, and to the planet.”

Don’t miss this compelling discussion that blends strategy, purpose, and practical innovation in the evolving European equipment finance landscape.

Listen now at https://assetfinanceconnect.com/european-equipment-finance-podcast/ and also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and Amazon.