Procura+ Conference: Redefining Public Procurement for Sustainable Urban Development

In a decisive step toward sustainable urban development, the Procura+ Conference, set to take place on March 13-14, 2024, in Lisbon, is poised to redefine the conventional approach to public procurement. The event comes at a critical juncture, with an estimated €86 trillion required by 2040 for infrastructure investment to meet sustainability targets. The conference aims to challenge the current 'business-as-usual' mindset, recognized as a significant contributor to carbon emissions and ill-equipped for the demands of climate change.

Transforming Infrastructure through Procurement

A standout session titled 'Transforming infrastructure and urban development districts through procurement' will take place on March 13. Here, participants will gain insights into successful sustainable infrastructure projects and the advanced procurement practices that made them possible. Key elements of these practices include sustainable design, innovative thinking, the use of sustainable materials, and adherence to circular economy principles. The session will delve into various strategies adopted by cities and organizations, resulting in the construction of resilient, circular, and sustainable infrastructure and buildings.

Key Participants and Topics

Key participants in the conference include representatives from the City of Lisbon, the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD), the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, the city of Høje-Taastrup, and the Sustainable Procurement Pledge (SPP). Among the highlights is the CO2 Performance Ladder, a tool implemented to reduce carbon emissions in public projects.

Procura+ Conference: A Vision for the Future

The overarching aim of the Procura+ Conference is to provide a broad spectrum of perspectives on the implementation of green, social, innovative, and circular public procurement across Europe. The conference seeks to demonstrate how public procurement can contribute to creating a society that is more sustainable, circular, and resilient. The event is a call to action for all interested parties to register and participate in shaping the future of urban development.