Green or sustainable procurement typically concentrates on how to improve sustainable practices within a linear economic model and as a result, focus can be narrowly applied to individual components, such as what materials are used in the product.

On the other hand, circular procurement focuses on the value of a product, considers needs, best use, and end of life management. Within this system, it is possible to leverage the full value of a product or material while minimizing environmental and social impacts.

While waste diversion may be a critical piece of the company’s sustainability objectives, its interrelationship with procurement is rarely recognized. When end-of-life considerations are included in procurement decisions less waste is generated, and diversion and capture rates increase.