The changing process of public procurement through the integration of circularity in a public organization: a challenge or an opportunity?

Abstract

Circular public procurement can help accelerate the transition from a linear to a circular economy. The Dutch public sector is responsible for 18% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) (SCP, 2016) which has a significant influence on different parts of society. A circular economy is an economy without waste through the use of three main principles: reuse, recycle and reduction. The transition from a linear to a circular economy is complex and requires changes in the public sector. This study aims to expand the body of knowledge on the organizational change processes, behind the implementation of circular practices into the public procurement process in a public organization. The implementation of organizational change is a considerable challenge for public organizations due to their bureaucratic structures and external complexity (van der Voet, 2014). In particular because of what Veenswijk, (2006) refers to as the so-called ‘innovation paradox’: public organizations are required to continuously change and innovate, but this is contradictory to their role of providing reliable and stable services. This research exposes a gap between policy and practice. The findings show that a hybrid approach between the planned and the emergent change approach is necessary to use public procurement as a powerful policy tool to create circular impact.