Circular public procurement is a powerful tool that municipal authorities can use to shape the transition towards a circular economy.

Public procurement accounts for 15-20% of global GDP, and sub-national authorities are responsible for almost 50% of procurement decisions. Municipal authorities therefore have an important role to play in shaping local circular economies by applying circular economy principles and criteria when purchasing products and services such as buildings, furniture, food and packaging.

This guide Circular public procurement: a framework for cities helps municipal authority practitioners adopt a more circular approach to public procurement. Public procurement processes differ from one city to another, so this guide is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, it provides an overarching framework that should be adapted to the local context and the reality of each city. Each step includes questions to consider, examples of how other municipal authorities have implemented circular procurement, and resources.