On a global scale, buildings use around 40 per cent of resources, 25 per cent of water and 40 per cent of energy, and they account for around one third of greenhouse gas emissions (UNEP & Resource Panel, 2017). Half of all materials going into the economy – 42.4 billion tonnes a year -- are used in the construction and maintenance of houses, offices, roads and infrastructure (Circle Economy, 2019).

The role of public procurement in the construction industry is significant as tenders range from retrofitting existing stock, redeveloping public spaces, building new infrastructure and buildings or remodeling the interior of public buildings. Therefore, public procurement influences directly the energy and material consumption in the construction industry. 

GLCN Cities have committed to using the power of sustainable and innovation public procurement, steering solutions on lowering energy use and cutting emissions. This can be achieved by harnessing the leverage to include criteria or specifications on for example energy performance or reused materials.