One of the main barriers to adopting circular procurement practices is the fear of audits, litigation and non-compliance with the legal frameworks. This often results in a highly risk-averse approach among contracting authorities which end up avoiding integrating circular economy principles into their purchasing decisions. However, many of these concerns stem from misconceptions about the legal constraints rather than actual limitations. 

The EU public procurement directive (2014/24/EU) offers significant room to embed sustainability, and its interpretation and implementation differ across member states, influencing how contracting authorities perceive their legal space. 

What best practices and examples do different member states have in breaking this barrier down? And how does the interpretation of the EU public procurement directive differ between member states, causing difference in perceived legal space to apply circular procurement?

This online event, organised by the Circular Economy Network (C-PRONE), aims to highlight best practices from different countries in overcoming legal fears surrounding circular procurement. It will also explore how the interpretation of the EU public procurement directive differs across member states, leading to varying levels of confidence in applying circular criteria. By bringing together legal experts and procurement professionals, the event seeks to provide clarity and practical strategies for unlocking the full potential of circular procurement within the existing legal framework.

Agenda

• 10:00 - 10:10 Welcome and introduction
• 10:10 - 10:25 Supporting policymakers, project leaders and buyers in better using regulations to advance the circular economy | Eveline Bakker, CircuLaw
• 10:25 - 10:40 From directives to practice: interpreting and implementing green public procurement across EU Member States | Jonas Voorter, University of Hasselt
• 10:40 - 10:55 The Circular procurement strategy in Ireland | Joanne Rourke, Dublin City Council
• 10:55 - 11:25 Panel discussion and Q&A
• 11:25 - 11:30 Closing

This event will take place online on 16 May at 10:00 - 11:30 CEST. It will be in English.

Registration.