Coercive, Mimetic and Normative Influences on the Uptake of Sustainable Public Procurement: An Institutional Perspective

Abstract

In this conceptual book chapter, we use an institutional perspective to discuss how the uptake of Sustainable Public Procurement (SPP) in Europe can be accelerated. More specifically, we discuss how three types of action, related to institutional forces (i.e. coercive, mimetic and normative), can be applied to stimulate SPP, what the advantages and disadvantages are, and what can be done to try to mitigate some of the disadvantages. In particular, we pay attention to the coercive force and different forms of mandatory SPP requirements. Using a theoretical adaptation method, we argue for a mandatory approach with procedural requirements that provides public buyers with sufficient flexibility and stimulates efforts beyond certain minimum levels of SPP. We discuss that the single use of substantive requirements might even hinder the uptake of SPP. A procedural comply-or-explain requirement in combination with substantive requirements might be more effective. Furthermore, we discuss that the combination of the three forces might be the most effective way forward. A mandatory approach with sufficient flexibility is considered to be most effective when professional norms are changed, to correspond with the principals of sustainable development, and when the copying of best practices is stimulated by tender platforms and other measures.