WTO GPA and Sustainable Procurement as Tools for Transitioning to a Circular Economy

TL;DR

This paper explores how public procurement, within the framework of WTO GPA, can facilitate the transition to a circular economy by promoting sustainable practices and navigating international trade laws.

Contribution

It analyzes the role of WTO GPA and sustainable procurement in enabling circular economy transition, highlighting legal and practical considerations.

Findings

Public procurement can drive circular economy initiatives.

Trade laws influence sustainable procurement practices.

Legal frameworks can be aligned with circular economy goals.

Abstract

We live in an age of consumption with an ever-increasing demand of already scarce resources and equally fast growing problems of waste generation and climate change. To tackle these difficult issues, we must learn from mother nature. Just like waste does not exist in nature, we must strive to create circular ecosystems where waste is minimized and energy is conserved. This paper focuses on how public procurement can help us transition to a more circular economy, while navigating international trade laws that govern it.