Circular Economy in Procurement: 2024 Discussion Paper on Key Actions for Councils

What's new?

Since the publication of the original white paper, circular economy has continued gaining momentum across local government.

To better understand the changing landscape, LGP facilitated an interactive workshop with more than 100 attendees during the 2024 LGP Conference, validating previous findings while identifying new priorities and emerging challenges facing councils.

What you'll learn

The discussion paper explores:

• how circular economy priorities have changed since 2023
• the latest challenges facing councils
• emerging barriers affecting implementation
• the recommendations councils now consider most important
• practical actions to accelerate circular economy adoption

Four priority actions

The paper distils research findings into four practical actions for councils:

• Train your team and get started

Build internal capability through education, collaboration and practical knowledge sharing.

• Get leadership on board

Embed circular economy objectives into strategic planning, governance and executive decision making.

• Focus on value, not just price

Adopt whole-of-life thinking through lifecycle assessment, funding opportunities and stronger business cases.

• Strengthen supplier relationships

Work collaboratively with suppliers to improve circular outcomes through engagement, performance measures and procurement practices.

Continuing the conversation

This discussion paper complements LGP's original Circular Economy white paper and reflects the evolving priorities of the NSW local government sector.

Whether you're reviewing existing procurement practices or developing new sustainability initiatives, the findings provide practical guidance to help councils move from strategy to action.