Achats stratégiques pour le développement durable dans le secteur européen des soins de santé

Challenges and opportunities in sustainable public procurement

Challenges

While the shift towards sustainable purchasing in healthcare is promising, it is not without its challenges. One of the main barriers is the upfront cost. Often, sustainable products and solutions come at a higher price point than conventional alternatives. This can be a significant barrier, particularly in regions with limited healthcare budgets.

Another challenge is the availability and accessibility of sustainable options. The market for ethical and environmentally friendly products is still evolving. Healthcare providers may struggle to source products that meet both their sustainability criteria and medical standards.

Strategic Purchasing in the Healthcare Sector

Strategic purchasing in healthcare goes beyond the traditional focus on profitability and quality. It is a broader vision, integrating ethical sourcing, environmental sustainability and societal well-being into purchasing decisions. It is not simply about selecting products and services, but about aligning purchasing practices with the values ​​of health and sustainability.

This concept is in line with the core mission of healthcare, which is to promote and protect health. By prioritising ethical and sustainable products, healthcare providers can influence the market, encouraging manufacturers to adopt more environmentally friendly and socially responsible practices. This approach is all the more important given the healthcare sector’s considerable purchasing power within the EU.

Case studies on sustainable public procurement in the EU healthcare sector

Circular procurement in the Danish healthcare sector

In Denmark, the healthcare sector is a pioneer in circular procurement, an approach that focuses on the reuse and recycling of products. This strategy not only reduces waste, but also ensures that products have a longer life cycle, which is in line with sustainability goals. For example, Danish hospitals are increasingly opting for medical equipment and supplies that offer environmentally friendly disposal options or can be recycled, thereby reducing their carbon footprint.

Public procurement before commercialisation in Catalonia

Catalonia is taking a different but equally innovative approach by implementing pre-commercial procurement (PCP) procedures. These procedures are designed to address societal challenges such as antimicrobial resistance (AMR). By focusing on the pre-commercial stages, Catalonia is encouraging the development of cutting-edge solutions that are not only sustainable, but also address critical health challenges. This forward-thinking approach positions the region at the forefront of innovation and sustainability in healthcare.

Other EU initiatives

Across the EU, several regions are adopting similar strategies. These include efforts to source locally, thereby reducing transport emissions, and prioritising products with a low environmental impact. This diversity of approaches highlights the versatility of strategic purchasing and its ability to adapt to different regional needs and challenges.

Introduction

The European healthcare sector is a key component of the continent’s economy, contributing around 14% of the European Union’s annual gross domestic product (GDP). This significant financial influence not only demonstrates its economic importance, but also provides a powerful lever for broader societal impacts. In recent years, there has been a growing focus on leveraging this influence to promote sustainability. This approach, known as strategic purchasing, is increasingly recognised for its potential to promote ethical, healthy and environmentally sustainable practices within the sector.

Opportunities

Despite these challenges, sustainable procurement in healthcare also presents significant opportunities. Firstly, it opens the door to innovation. As the demand for sustainable products increases, manufacturers are encouraged to invest in research and development, leading to new, more sustainable technologies and products.

Secondly, it creates the potential for long-term cost savings. While the initial investment might be higher, sustainable products often have lower lifecycle costs due to factors like energy efficiency and durability.

Finally, sustainable procurement aligns healthcare practices with broader societal values, enhancing public trust and reputation. It also contributes significantly to public health by reducing environmental impact, thus indirectly improving health outcomes.

Conclusion

Strategic procurement initiatives in the European healthcare sector reflect a profound shift towards sustainability and ethical responsibility. From Denmark’s circular procurement to Catalonia’s innovative pre-commercial procurement , these strategies demonstrate a commitment not only to healthcare in the traditional sense, but also to the health of the planet and society as a whole.

As the sector continues to address challenges, the opportunities for positive change and innovation are immense. The shift towards sustainable sourcing is more than a trend; it is a necessary evolution in response to global environmental and social challenges. It highlights the unique role that the healthcare sector can play in leading the way towards a more sustainable future.

The journey towards fully sustainable procurement is ongoing, but the steps taken by the European healthcare sector are significant. They serve as a beacon, showing that strategic purchasing can be a powerful tool to align business activities with ethical and environmental values, ultimately contributing to a healthier world for all.