5 December 2024
Procurement is one of the most important, but quite often also one of the most overlooked, phases in the lifecycle of the materials, products and services we use.
The outcomes from circular procurement activities can have a substantial and lasting influence on the way in which we manufacture and use goods and services, and how we facilitate a more efficient and ‘closed loop’ flow of resources within the economy.
This guide from the ISEP Circular Economy Network has been prepared to help equip sustainability and procurement practitioners, teams, organisations, and their value chains, with actionable insights to embed circular economy principles.
Why embedding circularity in procurement?
Procurement is a powerful tool for driving sustainability. It influences every phase of a product's lifecycle, from design to disposal. Circular procurement emphasises long-term value by incorporating principles such as durability, adaptability, and resource efficiency into purchasing decisions. This approach fosters a “closed-loop” system that minimizes waste, optimizes resource use, and significantly reduces environmental impact.
The guide underscores the critical role procurement plays in achieving the broader goals of a circular economy. By rethinking how we acquire goods and services, organisations can reduce their reliance on virgin materials, promote innovation, and set a new standard for environmental stewardship.
