Outcomes and Lessons Learned
Climate Outcomes
- The first contract’s supplier committed to reusing or recycling 95% of removed materials. Notably, shock pads were diverted from specialist landfill and repurposed for equestrian surfaces.
- Subsequent suppliers adopted the Reduce, Reuse, Recycle hierarchy, aligning with Scotland’s Zero Waste Plan. Measures included:
- Accurate material take-offs
- Timely ordering
- Minimal packaging
- Collaboration with reuse networks like The Community Resources Network and Construction Material Exchange
- Onsite Toolbox Talks to promote zero waste culture
Community Benefits and Fair Work
- Contract 1:
- 1 S/NVQ for a new or existing employee
- Business support to an SME/social enterprise/voluntary organisation
- Financial support for 2 community projects
- Contract 2:
- Business support to an SME/social enterprise/voluntary organisation
- Non-financial support for a community project
- Contract 3:
- Industry awareness event
- Business support to an SME/social enterprise/voluntary organisation
- Non-financial support for a Renfrewshire-based social enterprise
Lessons Learned
This project demonstrates how thoughtful procurement can drive sustainability. By using the Sustainable Procurement Tools and leveraging climate-aware procurement professionals, Renfrewshire Council transformed a routine infrastructure upgrade into a model of sustainable practice.
Even small steps—like including non-scored questions—can influence supplier behaviour and contribute meaningfully to broader goals like a circular economy and Net Zero by 2030.
This pilot approach allowed Renfrewshire to start developing appropriate “green” specifications and evaluating climate and circular economy specific requirements as markets mature. It also alerted the market to expect to respond to similar requirements in the future.
The inclusion of Community Benefits also delivered tangible social impact, supporting SMEs, community projects, and workforce development—aligning with both local and national priorities.
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