Since 1970, global demand for raw materials had tripled (!). If current growth continues, resource use will double again by 2060. Together, we are consuming far too many raw materials, putting increasing pressure on the environment. To use resources more responsibly, the government is therefore working with businesses towards a clear goal: a fully circular economy by 2050.
KeyPro has been a market leader in circular furniture rental for many years, helping both companies and government institutions integrate circular procurement. Fully managed from A to Z.
By 2050, the Dutch economy must be fully circular. This means products and materials are reused at the highest possible value, with almost no waste left behind.
To achieve this, the Dutch government launched the National Circular Economy Programma in 2016, aiming for an fully circular economy by 2050 and a 50% reduction of the use of primary raw materials by 2030. Municipalities and institutions such as PIANOo play a key role in this, particularly through sustainable procurement.
The National Programme for a Circular Economy (NPCE) 2023–2030 provides concrete measures to reach these goals. Circular procurement is one of the main tools, focusing on optimising resource flows through three strategies:
At KeyPro, we already see more and more organisations consciously choosing both flexibility and sustainability. Our furniture rental service is a clear example: no waste, no storage issues, no hassle. You only pay for what you need, for as long as you need it. We believe this way of furnishing won’t remain the exception, it will become the norm.
Procurement plays a key role in the transition to a circular economy. As a buyer, you determine which products and materials are purchased, under what conditions, and what impact they have on people and the environment.
Where purchasing once focused mainly on the lowest price and fastest delivery, sustainable procurement prioritises social and environmental goals.
Willem Straat, founder of KeyPro puts it this way: “Just start. Don’t wait until you have the whole picture perfect. Pick one process, one department, or one project and make a circular choice there. Show people that it works, that it’s hassle-free, and that it makes a difference. Small steps = big impact”
Let’s explore together how you can make procurement more circular
To make circular procurement more tangible, we’d like to share an example: the Koploper Project in Groningen. Together with Zwartwoud and NNRD, KeyPro created a circular supply chain in which wood and plastic waste streams underwent a remarkable transformation. From these residual materials, we built a beautifully crafted bedside table.
This sustainable piece of furniture is produced with the support of people distanced from the labour market, carefully processed by Zwartwoud, and then offered as a Product-as-a-Service by KeyPro, available for both private individuals and businesses.
This project demonstrates how innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand. And we’re proud of it.
Inspired by circularity and ready to get started with circular procurement in your organisation? By working with an ISO 14001-certified partner like KeyPro, you can achieve your sustainability goals without compromising on quality or comfort.
Our mission is to contribute to a circular economy by renting out furniture instead of selling it. Because why buy when you can rent?
At KeyPro, you rent sustainably designed furniture that lasts, is easy to maintain, and is given a new purpose after use. This way, you prevent unnecessary waste and actively contribute to a circular economy.
And the best part? We take care of everything for you: from choosing the right interior and putting together furniture packages to delivery, installation, and repairs. Curious to discover the possibilities?
Circularity means that raw materials, products, and materials are reused for as long as possible, without creating waste.
A circular product is designed to last as long as possible, is reusable, easy to repair or recycle, and generates minimal waste.
100% circular means that all materials used in a product are fully reused or recycled, with no residual waste. For example, furniture that is rented out again and again.
Linear means products are made, used, and then thrown away. Circular means products are made, used, and reused.
Refuse, Rethink, Reduce, Reuse, Repair, Refurbish, Remanufacture, Repurpose, Recycle, Recover. These ten principles help minimise waste and ensure maximum reuse of materials.