SUSTAINABLE PROCUREMENT: EMERGING ISSUES

ABSTRACT. Sustainable procurement is the pursuit of sustainable development objectives (WCED, 1987) through the purchasing and supply process, and involves balancing environmental, social and economic objectives. It is rising on the policy agenda for many countries, but knowledge remains limited. This study explores emerging issues through focus groups at a sustainable procurement workshop. The 44 participants included senior policy makers, academics, and practitioners from public and private sector and professional bodies. Focus group discussion data were taped and analyzed. Four sustainable procurement themes were explored: (1) Moving from an environmental focus to social and economic dimensions; (2) Sustainability and innovation; (3) Ethical supply and (4) Measurement issues. Findings seek to inform academic and practitioner debate on sustainable procurement