The transition to a circular economy requires a shift in the way businesses operate.

Service-based business models could potentially contribute to a more sustainable and circular economy. One of the most promising service-based models is product-as-a-service (PaaS). Flexible Belgian contract law allows parties to make their own arrangements in a contract, with due regard for certain mandatory legislative requirements. There are no specific provisions governing PaaS contracts, so the parties themselves shape their contractual relationship by means of the clauses of their contract.

This Circular Economy Policy Research Center publication aims to define clear model clauses for PaaS contracts, which reflect the expectations and intentions of the parties involved. The clauses cover all aspects of a contractual relationship, such as definitions, clauses substantiating the parties’ obligations and its termination. 

The annex to the report contains around twenty pages of model clauses, which will also be made available through a dedicated website operated by the Flemish government. Interested parties can freely use these model clauses to shape their own contracts.