Sustainability is becoming a core procurement priority. In many authorities and establishments it already is As schools, colleges and universities look to reduce carbon emissions and meet public-sector net zero commitments, the way classroom equipment is specified, sourced and maintained is under increasing scrutiny. Procurement teams attending the EducatioN Forum are moving beyond simply buying ‘eco-friendly’ products towards adopting a circular procurement mindset, where every purchasing decision considers the full lifecycle of classroom furniture, fixtures and technology.
Circular procurement starts with one key question: what happens after the product’s first use? Rather than purchasing on price alone, institutions are assessing the durability, repairability, and recyclability of classroom equipment.
Manufacturers are responding with modular furniture that can be easily repaired or reconfigured, and materials such as FSC-certified wood, recycled plastics and low-VOC coatings that reduce environmental impact. Some suppliers are now offering take-back schemes, ensuring old desks, chairs and whiteboards are refurbished, reused or responsibly recycled instead of going to landfill.
Procurement Frameworks Supporting Change
Frameworks such as the Crown Commercial Service (CCS) and ESPO are increasingly embedding sustainability and social value criteria into their education procurement models. This helps schools and universities make choices that align with the Public Services (Social Value) Act and emerging ESG reporting requirements.
For procurement officers, the shift requires a longer-term view of value. A higher upfront cost for sustainable equipment is often offset by extended warranties, lower replacement rates, and reduced waste disposal costs.
Engaging Suppliers in Sustainability Goals
Successful circular procurement depends on collaboration. Forward-thinking education estates are engaging suppliers early, sharing sustainability goals, requiring environmental certifications, and incorporating lifecycle impact assessments into tenders.
By selecting suppliers who share their carbon-reduction ambitions, institutions can foster innovation and ensure that sustainability commitments are measurable and verifiable.
Students as Stakeholders
Sustainability is an educational opportunity. Many schools and universities are involving students in decision-making around classroom design and materials, reinforcing environmental responsibility as part of the learning culture.
Visible commitments, such as recycled furniture or upcycled materials, send a strong message that sustainability starts at the desk.
Building the Circular Classroom
The most progressive education providers will be those that view procurement not as a transactional process but as a strategic driver of sustainability.
By embedding circular principles (reuse, repair, recycle) into every purchasing decision, schools and universities can create learning environments that are not only functional and inspiring, but also built for a sustainable future.
Top 5 Circular Procurement Practices for Education Buyers
- Specify for Longevity
Choose high-quality, modular classroom furniture and fixtures designed for durability, easy repair, and long-term adaptability rather than short-term replacement. - Prioritise Certified Materials
Opt for equipment made from FSC-certified timber, recycled plastics, or low-emission materials that meet recognised environmental standards. - Engage Suppliers Early
Include sustainability requirements in tenders: ask suppliers about take-back schemes, refurbishment programmes, and lifecycle carbon reporting. - Factor in Whole-Life Costs
Use total cost of ownership (TCO) models to evaluate long-term value, factoring in energy use, maintenance, and end-of-life recovery savings. - Reuse and Refurbish
Before buying new, explore reuse networks or refurbishment options within your existing inventory—extending product life reduces cost and carbon footprint. - Documentation
Document sustainability metrics (e.g. carbon savings, waste diverted from landfill) to demonstrate how procurement supports your institution’s net zero and social value goals.
Are you searching for Classroom Equipment solutions for your school, college or university? The Education Forum can help!
Photo by Ahmed Siddiqui on Unsplash
