Mission impossible? Challenges to government procurement in support of the circular transition

This paper investigates how government procurement can facilitate the transition of the Dutch geotextile supply chain toward a circular economy. It focuses on the construction industry, a sector with significant environmental impact, and explores the potential of Mission Economy principles to overcome barriers to circularity. Through a case study of the Dutch geotextile supply chain, the paper identifies key market, institutional, socio-cultural, and technical obstacles. It concludes that strategic, mission-oriented public procurement, involving collaboration, financial incentives, and regulatory improvements, can act as a catalyst for the adoption of sustainable materials, advancing the circular transition in construction.