Promoting Resource Efficiency: A Systematic Literature Review of Circular Procurement Practices for Sierra Leone’s Public Procurement

Abstract

Recent years have seen growing scholarly interest in circular economy ap-proaches to procurement. However, a systematic review of this knowledge remains lacking, particularly for developing economies. This review aims to address that gap by examining how Circular Procurement (CP) can support Sierra Leone’s sustainable development objectives and enhance resource effi-ciency. Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, we conducted a systematic liter-ature review of publications from 2016-2024, employing rigorous search, screening, data extraction and analysis methods focused on Sierra Leone’s public procurement sector. Our findings highlight CP’s potential to transform Sierra Leone’s public procurement management through; waste reduction, cost savings, improved resource efficiency and structured asset recovery turning end-of-life public assets into value streams. Nonetheless, implementation is hindered by several challenges, including institutional constraints, limited stakeholder awareness, capacity gaps, and weak policy alignment. While CP presents a promising pathway for enhancing resource efficiency, its successful adoption requires targeted interventions: capacity building for procurement staff, policy reforms, stronger stakeholder collaboration, and the integration of digital procurement solutions. This review provides the first comprehensive assessment of CP’s potential within Sierra Leone’s unique public procurement context, offering both theoretical insights and practical implementation guid-ance.

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Monson, F.K.S. and Musa, N. (2025) Promoting Resource Efficiency: A Systematic Literature Review of Circular Procurement Practices for Sierra Leone’s Public Procurement. <i>Open Access Library Journal</i>, <b>12</b>, 1-18. doi: <a href='https://doi.org/10.4236/oalib.1113467' target='_blank' onclick='SetNum(143617)'>10.4236/oalib.1113467</a>.

1. Introduction

Circular procurement (CP) has attracted growing scholarly attention due to its potential to enhance resource efficiency and sustainability [1]-[8]. In Sierra Leo-ne, public procurement plays a crucial role in national development, with the Na-tional Public Procurement Authority (NPPA) emphasising core values such as accountability and transparency for effective management [9] [10]. Given that public procurement often accounts for 15-20% of the gross domestic product in many developing countries like Sierra Leone, and contributes to poverty reduc-tion, recent Auditor General Reports in the country underscore the urgent need for improved procurement procedures to prevent financial losses [10]-[15].

Resource efficiency and the circular economy (CE) are becoming increasingly important as the world moves away from linear production and consumption models [5] [16]. A workable answer to environmental issues and economic growth is thought to be found in the CE’s emphasis on recycling, waste reduction, and sustainable resource use [7] [17]. Through circular procurement practices and policy-making, the public sector can spearhead this transition, given its substantial purchasing power [18] [19]. The transition’s aims are to protect the environment, stop climate change, and encourage a sustainable future [4] [19].

CP, an innovative strategy that is in line with the circular economy’s tenets aiming to extend product lifespans, prioritise reuse and recycling and ultimately close the loop of resource use [3]. The circular economy is supported by the selection of goods and services, from design and production to end-of-life management, according to circular economy principles [20]. Enhancing material regeneration and restoration, it fosters stakeholder collaboration and the creation of new business models by incorporating factors like quality, value for money, and environmental impact, all of which build upon traditional procurement methods [3] [21]. Governments and organisations can use CP to enhance innovation in their procurement processes, generate economic opportunities, and lessen their environmental impact [3] [22].

Despite the increased interest in CE and CP practices around the world, little research has been done on the African context, especially in Sierra Leone. Alt-hough CP has been studied in different industries and countries [5] [16] [17] [23] [24], little is known about how CP is currently used to promote resource efficiency in Sierra Leone’s national public procurement processes. Additionally, the absence of systematic synthesis of CP information and the restricted number of extant literature reviews on CP impede theoretical growth [23]. The purpose of this review is to close this knowledge gap by investigating how CP practices could enhance resource efficiency in Sierra Leone’s public procurement procedures [2].

The main objective of this review is to synthesise existing literature on CP to understand its potential for enhancing resource efficiency, with specific insights and applications relevant to Sierra Leone’s public procurement framework. To achieve this, the review aims to: 1) systematically identify and compile relevant research on circular procurement approaches within public procurement con-texts, drawing lessons applicable to Sierra Leone; 2) analyse how circular pro-curement methods, as documented in the literature, promote resource efficiency and how these findings can inform Sierra Leone’s national public procurement procedures; 3) identify gaps in the current body of knowledge regarding CP in developing country contexts like Sierra Leone, and propose directions for future research.

In keeping with the goals, the following research questions are addressed in this review:

RQ1: Based on existing literature, how are circular procurement methods currently conceptualised and applied to promote resource efficiency in public procurement contexts, and what lessons can be drawn for Sierra Leone?

RQ2: What are the advantages and challenges of integrating circular procurement practices into public procurement based on existing literature, with specific insights applicable to Sierra Leone’s context?

RQ3: Drawing from the literature, what key recommendations and potential solutions emerge for encouraging and implementing circular procurement procedures in Sierra Leone?

The study is motivated by the increasing acknowledgement of the significance of implementing a circular economy transition and the possible contribution of public procurement towards this process. Previous studies asserted that public procurement, is a substantial segment of government expenditure, possessing the capability to impact market conduct and encourage environmentally friendly methods [3] [24]. Investigating circular procurement methods in Sierra Leone, where public procurement makes up a sizable amount of government spending, can enhance resource efficiency and further the economic and environmental objectives of the nation.

This review makes a valuable contribution across theory, policy, and practice. Theoretically, it deepens understanding by synthesising existing research on circular procurement and highlighting its potential benefits. For policy, it offers practical insights into Sierra Leone’s current public procurement landscape and recommends ways to integrate circular practices. Procurement professionals can use these findings to guide more sustainable and efficient procurement strategies. Finally, the review identifies key gaps especially around the social impact and adoption of circular procurement in developing countries offering a foundation for future academic research and dialogue.

2. Methodology

The systematic literature review evaluated promoting resource efficiency of circular procurement practices for Sierra Leone’s Public Procurement, by applying the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA, 2020) guidelines [25] to articles published between 2016 to 2024. A systematic literature review finds, chooses, and critically assesses research to provide an answer to a clearly defined question [26]. The PRISMA statement was designed to help systematic reviewers transparently report why the review was done, what the authors did, and what they found [25]. Consistent with prior studies, this review was structured into four key steps [27] [28]. Namely;

1) Literature search.

2) Literature screening

3) Data extraction

4) Data analysis

2.1. Step One: Literature Search

A comprehensive search was conducted using terms “circular procurement” OR “resource efficiency” OR “public procurement “OR “Sierra Leone” OR “sustainable development”, OR “circular economy” OR “waste management” OR “policy reform” OR “best practices” in Web of Science, Science Direct, Google Scholar and Google, as applied in existing studies [27] [28]. These databases were selected because they have relevant published articles that are available to this study.

2.2. Step Two: Literature Screening

The search results were refined in the second stage by applying eligibility criteria. Firstly, articles were included if they are in English, original or secondary research, non-duplicate, and directly related to circular procurement. Articles were excluded if they; did not related to circular procurement and circular economy implementation, were not in English and did not fall within the 2016-2024 timeframe were removed [28].

2.3. Step Three: Data Extraction

Step three included data extraction and synthesis. Information was extracted from the identified studies regarding circular procurement practices, key findings, abstracts, discussions, conclusions and recommendations were examined, in line with existing studies [28]. This data was then synthesised to identify resource efficiency domains in circular procurement as carried out in existing studies.

2.4. Step Four: Data Analysis

The final step involved a detailed analysis of the extracted information to understand how circular procurement practices promotes resource efficiency. The review utilised R package (https://www.eshackathon.org/software/PRISMA2020) to develop a customisable flow diagram that conforms to PRISMA 2020 standards [29]. See Figure 1, which displays the PRISMA 2020 flow diagram for new systematic reviews, which comprised searches of databases and other sources.

Source: Generated by authors based on Haddaway et al. [29].

Figure 1. Showing PRISMA flow diagramme.

3. Findings

3.1. Publication of Articles Review by Years

Articles by Publication Years

Source: Generated by the authors (2025).

Figure 2. Bar chart showing article publication by years.

Articles reviewed in this study were published between 2016 and 20124, as shown in Figure 2. The published number of papers has varied throughout time, as the bar chart shows. Publications on the topic increased steadily in 2019 and 2020, reaching a significant peak in 2021. This was followed by a decline in 2022 and 2023, with a slight resurgence in 2024.

3.2. Theoretical Background

Moving away from the conventional linear economy model of “take-make-use-dispose,” the CE has emerged as a promising solution to address sustainability issues across various industries [18] [30] [31] [32]. CE seeks to eradicate waste and pollution, encourage resource circulation, and restore the natural world by concentrating on resource preservation and environmental regeneration [18] [32] [33]. Applying CE principles results in increased project lifecycle value through circular inputs, recycling, and resource optimisation, among other social, environmental, and financial benefits [5] [33] [34].

By incorporating eco-effectiveness and circularity principles into procurement policies, circular procurement guarantees resource efficiency and sustainability throughout the supply chain [6]. Chemical industries stand to gain significantly from CE practices through resource recovery, closed-loop supply chain design, and product reimagining [35]. CE represents a paradigm shift to a resilient and sustainable future, with significant implications for businesses, governments, and society [36] [37].

3.3. Existing Research on Circular Procurement Practices

Public procurement is a major source of government spending worldwide and presents a strong opportunity to advance circular economy and resource efficiency [1] [3] [38]. In order to promote circularity in procurement, academics stress combining standards for longer product lifespans and resource efficiency [6]. According to Kristensen et al. [2], this change places public procurement at the center of the circular economy’s advancement. Government regulations, circular strategies, sourcing procedures, and encouraging platforms are necessary for the effective implementation of CP [3] [6]. In order to create an environment that is favorable for circular products, experts support strong production standards and policies [39]. Zijp et al. [40] have highlighted the significance of robust standards in maintaining market integrity and giving procurement circularity top priority.

To attain ecological balance, stakeholders must create and integrate circular economy concepts with sustainable practices in the financial markets and built environment, according to recent studies [30]. Environmental considerations, sustainable economic growth, and effective stakeholder management have been demonstrated to enable the incorporation of circular procurement approaches into public-private partnerships (PPPs) [5]. Additionally, studies have shown how crucial it is to establish an environment that supports circular procurement, which includes raising awareness through campaigns, enacting strict production standards, and offering tax incentives for circular products [39]. These results highlight the necessity of a thorough strategy for encouraging circular procurement methods in the public procurement industry as CP practices are still changing, especially in developing countries like Sierra Leone, which calls for constant study and modification [3] [41].

3.4. Resource Efficiency Through Circular Procurement Techniques

By using strategies like leasing, buying products with recycled content, and service agreements with take-back programs, circular procurement strategies [4] [42], seek to align public procurement with the principles of the circular economy. Waste recovery is emphasized by Thelen et al. [43], who support the procurement process’s integration of circular principles. Rezvani Ghomi et al. [44] demonstrated the variety of methods available for circular procurement, extending the concepts of circular economy from the traditional 3R model to the 10R model. Cooperative partnerships with environmentally responsible suppliers are vital for enhancing sustainability and managing the complex interdependencies in public procurement, as emphasized by the United Nations Environment Programme [20]. This is supported by Khan et al. [45], whose study on procurement challenges in Bangladesh highlights the need for holistic, systemic solutions due to the interlinked nature of issues like political influence and staff competence.

The dynamic nature of circular procurement is emphasized by Ababio et al. [3] as being crucial for advancing the circular economy agenda, especially in the construction sector. Sierra Leone can move closer to its goals for sustainable development and better use of resources by adopting circular economy strategies, which have been shown to support cleaner water, fairer job opportunities, more responsible consumption, and the protection of natural ecosystems, as noted by Avilés-Palacios and Valverde [46].

3.5. Potential Benefits and Challenges of Circular Procurement

By promoting resource conservation and waste reduction through tactics like leasing and service contracts, circular procurement in public procurement offers substantial cost-saving potential [1] [4] [10]. It promotes sustainable practices and more expansive environmental goals in line with the principles of the circular economy [2]. Nonetheless, obstacles continue to exist, such as the inadequate comprehension of circular principles by stakeholders, the absence of incentives for designers, and incompatibilities with existing procurement techniques [4]. Particularly in developing countries like Sierra Leone, effective implementation necessitates stakeholder collaboration, policy development, and technological support [3]. In order to fully realise the benefits of circular procurement in public procurement, it is imperative that these obstacles are resolved.

3.6. Global Examples of Successful Circular Procurement Initiatives

Despite the difficulties, there are instances of effective CP implementation worldwide that provide Sierra Leone with important lessons. Adopting national circular economy action plans, such as those of Finland, Chile, and France, offers a tactical framework for enacting change [19]. Kovačić et al. [8] have provided another example of a successful regional policy that encourages resource efficiency and circularity: the European Union’s Green Deal. Examples like these show how crucial top-down policy initiatives are to encouraging the adoption of CP. Additionally, studies conducted in Ghana’s construction industry show that it is possible to incorporate circularity principles into current procurement criteria, implying that established practices can serve as a basis for the implementation of circular economy principles [3]. Sierra Leone could explore developing a national circular economy action plan and leverage existing procurement frameworks to integrate circular procurement, drawing inspiration from these successful global examples.

3.7. Legal Framework for Public Procurement in Sierra Leone

The Public Procurement Act [47] and its accompanying Regulation [48] constitute the main framework governing public procurement in Sierra Leone. The framework seeks to facilitate procurement in line with national development needs, promote economic development, and guarantee the effective use of public funds. The Act, which established the NPPA to supervise operations and enforce regulations, places a strong emphasis on accountability, transparency, and equity [9] [47]. It encourages sustainable development and fair competition by enforcing bidder requirements, procurement procedures, and anti-corruption measures. A sustainable procurement environment is created by the Regulation, which strengthen oversight, transparency, and digitisation while highlighting electronic communication, resource recovery through responsible assets disposal there by promoting circular procurement principles [44].

3.8. The Current Public Procurement in Sierra Leone

The Public Procurement Act [47] and its implementing Regulation [48] regulate public procurement practices in Sierra Leone. These legislative tools create a thorough framework intended to control the nation’s public procurement procedures. The Act aims to promote economic development, guarantee the effective use of public funds, and encourage the involvement of competent suppliers, contractors, consultants, and other service providers [47]. It covers a wide range of topics related to public procurement, such as the creation and duties of the NPPA, rules for suppliers and bidders, the decentralisation of the procurement process, and laws governing procedures and methods [47] [48]. The Act outlines the NPPA’s responsibilities, which include developing policies and standards, evaluating and enhancing procurement procedures, supporting capacity building, and interpreting pertinent laws [47]. It also mandates the establishment of the Authority in order to regulate and oversee public procurement [47].

The Act also explores the behaviour that bidders and suppliers are expected to exhibit, emphasising the value of cooperation, openness, and disclosure to the Authority and other pertinent authorities [47] [48]. It also deals with fraud and corruption, outlining the criminal, civil, and administrative penalties for infractions.

Furthermore, comprehensive guidelines are delineated for diverse facets of procurement, including the processes for bidding, the formation of procurement committees, and procurement review panels. The regulation covers a wide range of procurement techniques, such as competitive bidding, RFPs, and quotations, in addition to specific steps for contract awarding and consultant selection. The Act’s provisions regarding the disposal of stores and equipment fall under the purview of circular economy principles [43] [44]. The Public Procurement Act [47] and its Regulations [48] provide a framework for the adoption of sustainable practices, aiming to reduce waste through the promotion of reuse, recycling, and responsible disposal of assets. In this context, the disposal of stores and equipment may involve transfer to other government departments or public entities with or without financial adjustment; sale by public bid to the highest bidder, subject to a reserve price; sale by public auction, also subject to a reserve price; or, where appropriate, destruction, dumping, or burying [48]. These measures advance circular economy principles with an emphasis on resource recovery and waste minimisation [43] [44]. Together, these laws create a framework for a sustainable and organised public procurement system in Sierra Leone that promotes efficiency and accountability.

3.9. Opportunities and Challenges of Integrating Circular Procurement in Sierra Leone

In Sierra Leone’s public procurement procedures, CP presents both possible advantages and difficulties. Benefits from Industry 4.0 technologies include increased resource efficiency, decreased waste, support for sustainable development, growth in the local economy, reduction of pollution, creation of jobs, and innovation [49] [50]. On the other hand, certain social implications, like the impact on social incidents and organisational performance, need more examination [51].

Limited access to circular technologies and products, institutional and political barriers, and a lack of awareness and comprehension of circular economy principles among stakeholders are some of the challenges facing the implementation of the circular economy policy [45] [52] [53]. Despite the challenges, Sierra Leone has a real chance to improve circular procurement by building on the progress it has already made in getting different sectors to work together, as seen with its One Health platforms [54]. At the same time, lessons from around the world show that making circular economy practices work well means having clear policies, involving all key players, and finding creative ways to reuse materials, like turning waste from old solar panels into building materials, to make better use of resources and reduce waste [55] [56]. According to research, to stop political meddling and corruption, legal frameworks, supervision, and auditing are essential [57]. Based on existing studies, there is a need for customised approaches and increased cross-national comparative research, given the variations in departmental perspectives and institutional contexts [2] [23]. These problems must be resolved to achieve CP’s full potential and promote ecological development in Sierra Leone.

3.10. Steps to Address Challenges and Promote the Implementation of Circular Procurement

A number of actions can be taken to support the implementation of circular procurement in Sierra Leone, including capacity-building programmes aimed at enhancing knowledge and skills related to CP [1] [45] [54]. Insights from existing studies suggest that policy adjustments are necessary to ensure consistency, accountability, and transparency in circular procurement systems by aligning with international standards and best practices [1] [10]. Blockchain and e-procurement platforms are examples of technology that can be used to increase transparency, speed up procurement, cut down on paperwork, and provide real-time data for well-informed decision-making [1]. Market development and participation are stimulated by providing suppliers offering circular products and services with incentives such as preferential bid treatments [5].

It is necessary to continuously assess and adjust these tactics in light of Sierra Leone’s distinct political, technological, and economic context in order to address information gaps, restricted market access, and potential corruption.

4. Discussion

Our systematic examination of articles and reports, published between 2016 and 2024 and conducted using PRISMA (2020) guidelines [25] [29], focused on how resource efficiency is promoted in circular procurement practices. This work drew insights for their application within Sierra Leone’s public procurement system, particularly under the framework of the Public Procurement Act [47] and its Regulations [48]. The main conclusions from these reviewed articles highlight important trends, theoretical understandings, real-world applications, and new challenges. According to the publication of articles by year, interest in CP has grown, reaching a peak in 2021. Since then, publications slightly declined with some fluctuations, reflecting sustained interest in the field, albeit tampered by implementation challenges and the evolving nature of circular economy frameworks across different public procurement systems [18] [31].

This review provides a foundation for the discussion by shifting away from linear “take-make-dispose” models and toward the environmental restoration and resource optimisation tenets of CE. In order to reduce waste and promote resilient economic structures, theories highlight a systems-based approach and call for the use of CE [36] [37]. By promoting frameworks that support asset recovery, reuse, and responsible disposal, circular economy principles can strengthen public procurement practices in Sierra Leone. Applying CE in this context encourages the resale or transferring of government assets and equipment, reducing waste and maximising resource value thereby enhancing efficiency and generating economic benefits within the public sector [5] [6].

Moreover, this review highlights CP’s contribution to enhancing resource efficiency, especially through international public procurement. They include implementing rules that support closed-loop systems and prolonging product lifespans [39] [40]. Ghana and the EU provide examples that highlight the importance of strong policy frameworks for CP integration, from which Sierra Leone should learn [3] [8]. These experiences demonstrate the transformative potential of robust regulatory backing, improved production standards, and incentive structures in mainstreaming CP [2]. Sierra Leone must, however, adapt global approaches to local circumstances as part of the transition, adopting an adaptable approach to CP projects in terms of policy, technology, and awareness.

The application of CE in public procurement can result in substantial benefits, such as increased project lifecycle value and social, environmental, and financial benefits. CE has emerged as a promising solution to address sustainability issues across various industries [5] [34]. Additional advantages also includes cost savings, encouragement of sustainable activities, and conformity to the circular economy’s tenets [2]. Nonetheless, there several obstacles to the integration of CE principles into procurement procedures, mainly the lack of knowledge, experience, and incentives among stakeholders [4]. Institutional and political obstacles, restricted access to circular technology and products, and stakeholders’ ignorance of CE principles are additional challenges [45] [52].

To address these issues, this review recommends technological improvements and capacity-building initiatives to enhance the efficiency of public procurement procedures [1] [10]. Additionally, to establish a favourable environment for CP, multi-stakeholder cooperation and focused incentives like tax breaks and supplier support are needed [4]. Lastly, CP can be more effectively supported by strengthening the foundation laid by the Public Procurement Act and Public Procurement Regulations to more fully incorporate CP principles. To support long-term resource efficiency and sustainability, it is important for Sierra Leone to thoughtfully address these challenges as it moves towards integrating circular economy principles into its public procurement practices. [23] [52].

5. Recommendations and Conclusions

5.1. Conclusion

The potential of CP to improve resource efficiency in Sierra Leone’s public procurement procedures was examined in this review. According to the study, there are a number of advantages to CP, such as decreased waste production and increased resource efficiency [6]. Aligned with the principles of a circular economy, cost savings can be realised through strategies such as leasing and take-back programmes [4]. Additionally, according to Avilés-Palacios and Valverde [46], CP can support national development goals for sustainability and generate new employment opportunities, which in turn can promote economic growth [55].

All the same, there are other issues with CP integration that need to be taken care of. According to Ahmed et al. [4], adoption of circular economy principles may be impeded by the lack of knowledge and comprehension among stakeholders, such as clients, consultants, and contractors. In addition, a dearth of market availability for circular materials and a lack of incentives for project designers to integrate circularity can obstruct successful implementation [4]. According to Ahmed et al. [4], there is also a possibility that the procurement methods and procedures currently in use do not align with the CP strategies. Research shows that for CP to be implemented successfully, which can be difficult in developing countries like Sierra Leone, stakeholder collaboration, policy development, and technology support are essential [3]. Consequently, in order to fully reap the benefits of CP in public procurement procedures, these issues must be resolved, even though CP has the potential to improve resource efficiency.

The following suggestions are put forth in an effort to get past these obstacles and realise the full potential of CP in Sierra Leone. First and foremost, it is imperative to raise awareness and provide procurement staff with the necessary skills to implement CP effectively through capacity building initiatives like training programs, workshops, and educational campaigns [1] [54]. Second, in order to guarantee that procurement policies are in line with global best practices and the tenets of the circular economy, legislative and regulatory changes are required. Sierra Leone could guide tendering procedures and get past obstacles related to procurement by using the World Bank’s procurement framework, which addresses crucial factors like cost, quality, risk, sustainability, and flexibility [10]. Thirdly, market development and participation can be stimulated by introducing incentives like preferential bidding treatment for suppliers offering circular products and services [5]. Fourthly, technological developments have the potential to improve data-driven decision-making, increase transparency, and streamline procedures, especially through the use of blockchain technology and e-government procurement platforms [1]. Lastly, in order to create an environment that encourages the adoption of CP, cooperation between the public and private sectors as well as civil society is crucial [53].

Sierra Leone can use CP as a potent tool to meet its objectives for sustainable development and resource efficiency by putting these suggestions into practice and continually tailoring strategies to the country’s unique circumstances [46]. To guarantee efficacy in Sierra Leone’s distinct political, technological, and economic environment, this strategy will need to be continuously assessed and improved [23] [53]. The present review delves into the crucial function of CP in advancing resource efficiency and propelling financial sustainability within the public procurement domain of Sierra Leone. Through a comprehensive analysis of existing literature, this review has deepened our understanding of the potential benefits, challenges, and opportunities associated with circular procurement, while contributing to ongoing discussions by drawing insights applicable to developing countries such as Sierra Leone.

5.2. Future Research Directions

First, research should explore the use of online procurement systems (e-procurement) in Sierra Leone. Adopting such technology could streamline procurement processes, reduce paperwork, and provide real-time data to support better decision-making. Second, further studies could investigate how blockchain technology might improve oversight and transparency in Sierra Leone’s procurement system. This technology has the potential to enable real-time tracking of goods and secure transactions without intermediaries. Third, future research should examine how to align Sierra Leone’s CP practices with international standards to ensure consistency and promote best practices. Learning from global benchmarks could enhance the effectiveness of CP implementation in the country. Additionally, research might explore how international organisations could offer greater support in areas such as professional training, regulatory frameworks, governance, and technological infrastructure, including e-procurement systems. Fourth, studies could assess how to adapt cost-saving models for PPPs originally designed for other contexts to meet the specific needs of Sierra Leone’s public procurement. Lastly, research that links the needs of infrastructure development with suitable procurement strategies could offer important insights into how Sierra Leone’s public sector can more effectively implement CP for its infrastructure projects.

5.3. Limitations of the Study

This review highlights the significant potential of CP in Sierra Leone for boosting resource efficiency and achieving national development goals. Firstly, training programmes and other capacity-building initiatives are crucial to equip procurement staff with the necessary tools and knowledge to implement CP effectively. Secondly, adopting CP can be greatly encouraged by legislative and regulatory changes that conform to global best practices, potentially leveraging established frameworks like those from the World Bank. Lastly, exploring and implementing blockchain technology and e-procurement platforms can significantly improve data-driven decision-making, streamline existing procedures, and enhance transparency within CP practices. By taking these decisive actions, Sierra Leone can be well-positioned to fully harness the benefits of CP for a more sustainable future.

5.4. Implications for Practice

While this review highlights Sierra Leone’s potential for CP, it acknowledges several limitations that should be considered. The study’s reliance on existing literature may not fully capture practical implementation challenges, while limited data on current procurement practices and the availability of circular products in local markets constrains the accuracy of our assessment. Furthermore, the broad, national-level recommendations presented may require careful adaptation to address Sierra Leone’s specific contextual realities. Future research incorporating pilot studies could help develop more tailored CP implementation strategies that account for local conditions and constraints. An additional limitation stems from the review’s temporal scope, which focuses on literature published between 2016 and 2024. This timeframe, while providing recent perspectives, might exclude valuable insights from earlier foundational studies or the very latest developments in CP methodologies that could inform Sierra Leone’s approach.

Acknowledgement

The authors sincerely thank Professor Jeff Jia, Professor Wang Kai, Dr. Gulnaz Shahzadi, Madam Melonie Kastma, Mr. Morie Lansana, and the Monson family for their invaluable support.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors of this article titled: “Promoting resource efficiency: A systematic literature review of circular procurement practices for Sierra Leone’s Public Procurement”, declare that there are no conflicts of interest.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors of this article titled: “Promoting resource efficiency: A systematic literature review of circular procurement practices for Sierra Leone’s Public Procurement”, declare that there are no conflicts of interest.

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