Circular Economy Procurement
As Gaeilge: Soláthar Geilleagar Ciorclach
Also known as: Circular Procurement
Last reviewed April 2026
Buying goods, services and works in a way that keeps materials in use for longer, reduces waste, and prioritises reuse, repair and recycled content.
An emerging strand of Irish public procurement policy aligned with the EU Circular Economy Action Plan and Ireland's Whole-of-Government Circular Economy Strategy. Practical applications include specifying recycled content in construction materials, requiring take-back schemes for furniture and electronics, demanding repairability of IT equipment, and contracting for services (light, mobility) rather than products. EPA guidance and OGP green-procurement criteria support implementation.
Related terms
Green Public Procurement (GPP)
A policy requiring public bodies to include environmental criteria in contracts — mandatory over €50k in Ireland from 2025.
Sustainable Public Procurement (SPP)
Procurement that integrates economic, environmental and social goals across the full life cycle of contracts.
Life-Cycle Costing
An evaluation method that scores bids on total cost of ownership over the asset's life, not just purchase price.