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.
Contribution to National Outcomes
This project contributes to the following national outcomes:
- We grow up loved, safe and respected so that we realise our full potential - Due to the school-based location of the pitches the main users will be young people, and the project will support active lifestyles and give opportunities for development of skills.
- We live in communities that are inclusive, empowered, resilient and safe - The replacement of the pitches at school locations which are the heart of our communities across Renfrewshire gives equal opportunities for inclusive activities and safe places for young people.
- We value, enjoy, protect and enhance our environment - Inclusion of climate requirements aim to protect the environment.
- We have thriving and innovative businesses, with quality jobs and fair work for everyone - Inclusion of Fair Work and Community Benefit requirements ensure fair work and related opportunities are at the heart of the project.
- We are healthy and active - Replacement of sports facilities to ensure they are fit for purpose promotes active lifestyles and mental health and wellbeing.
- We respect, protect and fulfil human rights and live free from discrimination - The Fair Work requirements of contract address human rights in the contracted workforce and the supply chain.
- We tackle poverty by sharing opportunities, wealth and power more equally - Community Benefit and Fair Work requirements aim to provide opportunities across Renfrewshire and allow sharing of benefits from the contracted works with the community – further than just the provision of the contracted project.
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