Conceptualizing circular procurement: an analysis of 81 definitions

Purpose Circular procurement (CP) has started gaining traction among scholars and practitioners. Hence, it is imperative for it to be properly conceptualised to mitigate the risk of becoming vague. Consequently, this study aims to establish a transparent comprehension (of the principles, enablers and aims) of the CP phenomenon. Design/methodology/approach To achieve this objective, the systematic literature review approach was employed to analyze 81 CP definitions collected mainly from Scopus and Google scholar. Findings This study found that CP is a complex but innovative way of purchasing that brings long-term benefits to the present and future generations. This study also found that only a few CP definitions were linked to the concept of sustainable development. The key objectives of CP were ecological quality followed by economic resilience. Only a handful of the definitions examined CP’s link to social equity. Moreover, this study found that CP enablers included the functionality economy (buyback philosophy), business models, circular items, circular suppliers and circular processes (such as circular specification, circular sourcing and circular contracting). Research limitations/implications This study will furnish practitioners and scholars with a transparency and holistic conceptualisation of CP. It will offer them with the core principles, aims and enablers, thereby aiding them to make effective strategic sourcing decisions. Originality/value Overall, this study contributes to the consistency of the CP concept because the proliferation of several definitions could result in the collapse of the concept. The study proposed a classic CP definition for scholars, practitioners and policymakers. In addition, this study demonstrated that upscaling, capacity and technological advancement are other enablers of CP. Furthermore, this study discusses the similarities and dichotomies between CP and other related concepts like green procurement and sustainable procurement. The study also established the nexus between CP and emerging areas like circular engineering, circular project management, circular construction, circular finance, circular marketing etc. Finally, this studys show that CP is the gateway to circular economy.