Humble Sustainability: Pioneering the Circular Economy in Southeast Asia
September 11, 2024, 11:36 pm
In a world drowning in electronic waste, Humble Sustainability emerges as a beacon of hope. This Philippines-based climate tech startup is on a mission to transform how businesses handle their discarded technology. With a recent pre-Series A funding round led by ADB Ventures and Gobi Partners, Humble is set to expand its reach across Southeast Asia.
Founded in 2021, Humble has quickly positioned itself as a leader in the climate sector. The startup’s innovative B2B trading platform allows corporations to recycle and refurbish their used IT equipment. This not only helps businesses meet their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals but also significantly reduces electronic waste. Each year, an estimated $62.5 billion worth of discarded technology components end up in landfills. Humble aims to change that narrative.
The company’s platform boasts a remarkable 40% take rate, increasing the value of unwanted assets by up to five times. This is not just about recycling; it’s about reimagining the lifecycle of technology. Humble’s CEO, inspired by a legacy of activism, envisions a future where one billion items are brought back into circulation by 2030. This ambitious goal is not just a number; it’s a commitment to sustainability.
A key player in Humble’s strategy is the Climate Dashboard, a tool designed to provide businesses with real-time data on their environmental impact. This dashboard will help companies track greenhouse gas emissions and waste diversion from landfills. By making environmental metrics transparent, Humble empowers businesses to set realistic targets and monitor their progress. It’s like holding a mirror to their ecological footprint.
The recent investment from ADB Ventures is a game-changer. This partnership will fuel Humble’s three-phase expansion plan. Initially, the focus will be on scaling operations within the Philippines. But the horizon stretches further, with plans to penetrate crowded markets in Indonesia and Thailand by the end of 2026. This expansion taps into a $13 billion market opportunity across Southeast Asia, positioning Humble as a frontrunner in the recommerce of electronic assets.
Humble’s growth isn’t just about numbers; it’s about impact. The investment will bolster its tech and sales teams, enhancing B2B marketing efforts. Additionally, Humble plans to launch a B2C model in 2025, allowing consumers to source and purchase second-hand items directly. This move will challenge the stigma surrounding second-hand electronics, proving that they can be both valuable and sustainable.
The National Development Company (NDC) also recognizes Humble’s potential. Their investment underscores the importance of integrating ESG principles into business practices. By bringing old office equipment back into circulation, Humble not only reduces e-waste but also provides affordable, pre-loved electronic assets to businesses and individuals. This model is a testament to the power of circular economy practices.
As Humble looks to the future, its commitment to sustainability remains unwavering. By 2026, the company plans to explore additional categories, such as clothing, applying its technology-driven solutions to new sectors. This adaptability is crucial in a rapidly changing world.
Humble’s headquarters in Manila and its holding company in Singapore position it strategically for growth. The recent funding round not only provides the necessary resources for expansion but also reaffirms investor confidence in Humble’s vision.
In a region where electronic waste is a pressing issue, Humble Sustainability stands at the forefront of change. The startup’s innovative approach to e-waste management is not just a business model; it’s a movement. By connecting businesses with sustainable practices, Humble is inspiring a collective effort towards a greener future.
The journey is just beginning. As Humble expands its operations, it invites businesses and individuals to join the collaboration. Together, they can create a circular economy that benefits everyone. The challenge is immense, but the potential is even greater.
In a world where sustainability is no longer optional, Humble Sustainability is leading the charge. It’s a reminder that every discarded item has value. With the right tools and mindset, we can turn waste into opportunity. The future is circular, and Humble is paving the way.
As we look ahead, the question remains: how will we respond to the call for sustainability? Humble is ready to lead the way, but it takes a collective effort to make a lasting impact. The time for action is now. Let’s embrace the circular economy and redefine our relationship with technology. Together, we can make a difference.
Founded in 2021, Humble has quickly positioned itself as a leader in the climate sector. The startup’s innovative B2B trading platform allows corporations to recycle and refurbish their used IT equipment. This not only helps businesses meet their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals but also significantly reduces electronic waste. Each year, an estimated $62.5 billion worth of discarded technology components end up in landfills. Humble aims to change that narrative.
The company’s platform boasts a remarkable 40% take rate, increasing the value of unwanted assets by up to five times. This is not just about recycling; it’s about reimagining the lifecycle of technology. Humble’s CEO, inspired by a legacy of activism, envisions a future where one billion items are brought back into circulation by 2030. This ambitious goal is not just a number; it’s a commitment to sustainability.
A key player in Humble’s strategy is the Climate Dashboard, a tool designed to provide businesses with real-time data on their environmental impact. This dashboard will help companies track greenhouse gas emissions and waste diversion from landfills. By making environmental metrics transparent, Humble empowers businesses to set realistic targets and monitor their progress. It’s like holding a mirror to their ecological footprint.
The recent investment from ADB Ventures is a game-changer. This partnership will fuel Humble’s three-phase expansion plan. Initially, the focus will be on scaling operations within the Philippines. But the horizon stretches further, with plans to penetrate crowded markets in Indonesia and Thailand by the end of 2026. This expansion taps into a $13 billion market opportunity across Southeast Asia, positioning Humble as a frontrunner in the recommerce of electronic assets.
Humble’s growth isn’t just about numbers; it’s about impact. The investment will bolster its tech and sales teams, enhancing B2B marketing efforts. Additionally, Humble plans to launch a B2C model in 2025, allowing consumers to source and purchase second-hand items directly. This move will challenge the stigma surrounding second-hand electronics, proving that they can be both valuable and sustainable.
The National Development Company (NDC) also recognizes Humble’s potential. Their investment underscores the importance of integrating ESG principles into business practices. By bringing old office equipment back into circulation, Humble not only reduces e-waste but also provides affordable, pre-loved electronic assets to businesses and individuals. This model is a testament to the power of circular economy practices.
As Humble looks to the future, its commitment to sustainability remains unwavering. By 2026, the company plans to explore additional categories, such as clothing, applying its technology-driven solutions to new sectors. This adaptability is crucial in a rapidly changing world.
Humble’s headquarters in Manila and its holding company in Singapore position it strategically for growth. The recent funding round not only provides the necessary resources for expansion but also reaffirms investor confidence in Humble’s vision.
In a region where electronic waste is a pressing issue, Humble Sustainability stands at the forefront of change. The startup’s innovative approach to e-waste management is not just a business model; it’s a movement. By connecting businesses with sustainable practices, Humble is inspiring a collective effort towards a greener future.
The journey is just beginning. As Humble expands its operations, it invites businesses and individuals to join the collaboration. Together, they can create a circular economy that benefits everyone. The challenge is immense, but the potential is even greater.
In a world where sustainability is no longer optional, Humble Sustainability is leading the charge. It’s a reminder that every discarded item has value. With the right tools and mindset, we can turn waste into opportunity. The future is circular, and Humble is paving the way.
As we look ahead, the question remains: how will we respond to the call for sustainability? Humble is ready to lead the way, but it takes a collective effort to make a lasting impact. The time for action is now. Let’s embrace the circular economy and redefine our relationship with technology. Together, we can make a difference.