Tabreed and Sparklo join hands to boost recycling infrastructure

Tabreed, the district cooling company, is launching a new sustainability partnership with Sparklo.

As part of the joint effort, 16 reverse vending machines (RVMs) – called Sparklomats – will be installed across the UAE. Residents will be able to recycle plastic bottles and aluminium cans in exchange for digital rewards through these vending machines.

The bonus points earned in the Sparklo app is redeemable for discounts at grocery stores, taxi rides and more.

One Sparklomat has been installed at Tabreed’s headquarters, while 15 others will be placed in high-traffic locations, including Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Water World and a selection of malls in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Tabreed expands green efforts with Sparklo

Khalid Al Marzooqi, Chief Executive Officer of Tabreed, said: “At Tabreed, we believe that innovation and collaboration are essential to achieving the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 vision. This project with Sparklo reflects our commitment to decarbonisation through innovation and strategic partnerships, allowing us to make the places we cool more sustainable overall.

“By introducing smart recycling solutions in communities across Abu Dhabi, we are extending our sustainability efforts beyond our operations – creating real opportunities for residents and visitors to take part in climate action.”

Maxim Kaplevich, Founder of Sparklo, added: “Sustainability works best when it’s built into people’s daily lives. Together, we’re addressing two sides of the same challenge: making the places where people live, shop, and spend time both more energy-efficient and more circular.”

Based on Sparklo’s average UAE collection data, the partnership is projected to collect more than four million bottles and cans annually, averaging 11,600 containers per day across the network. This is expected to prevent approximately 637,400 kilograms of CO₂ emissions each year.

Last year, a single Sparklomat recorded over 13,000 containers collected in a single day, demonstrating the product’s potential when placed in high-traffic locations.

Maha Sallam, Chair of Tabreed’s Social Sub-committee, said: “This partnership shows how shared infrastructure and positive incentives can turn sustainability into everyday action, achieving real progress. This is a clear demonstration of the importance of community to Tabreed, positioning our name in the spaces people use the most in their everyday lives.

“Sustainability is a mindset shared across the entire company, with everyone aligned on the importance of even the smallest contribution. Every time we set aside our plastics and other recyclables to be properly processed, it’s a positive step and proof that we’re aware of our collective impact on the environment.”