A sustainable product needing a sustainable procurement commitment: the case of green waste in Wales

European waste legislation aims to reduce the amount and type of waste that is sent to landfill. Hence member states are investigating alternatives, and trying to treat waste as a resource. In the UK there is a focus on producing compost from biodegradable waste. This emphasis is particularly strong in Wales, where strategy encourages the collection and composting of green garden waste. A survey has been conducted within the composting industry in Wales to determine the barriers that need to be overcome in order for green waste compost to become an accepted and viable product. The research investigates purchasing preferences, and identifies the important role of specifications in purchasing decisions. Welsh policy initiatives support the concept of sustainable development and encourage sustainable procurement. However, practical actions are required to turn these policies into practice. This study suggests how sustainable procurement initiatives could be used to facilitate the inclusion of green waste compost in contract specifications and hence enable public bodies to close the recycling loop. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.