In general, everything that is thrown away was purchased at some time. So smart decisions around what and how much to purchase, or even if to purchase, can make a huge difference.
- For municipalities and institutions, consider joining the BC Social Procurement Initiative or the Canadian Collaboration for Sustainable Procurement.
- See the webinar on how procurement can support zero waste. How Can Procurement Support Zero Waste? December 2022 webinar with Sue Maxwell and Jane Rushton.
- Canadian Cities and Regions Initiative Circular Procurement:
Strategies for Circular Criteria - Circular Procurement
- The BC Government also has some resources.
Ask questions according to the hierarchy:
- Rethink: do I need this? Is there another way to access the service?
- Reduce: are there options that produce less waste? are there options that last longer? are there options that decrease use of resources like materials, water and energy? Are there options that have no or less toxic components or were not made using toxic chemicals?
- Reuse: can I buy it used? can I share, lease, borrow or rent it? can I use something similar?
- Repair: can it be repaired? will parts and support be available? is there a warranty?
- Recycle/compost: can it be recycled or composted at end of life? Is there an extended producer responsibility program for it?