UK Government Strengthens Circular IT Procurement in 2026

Refurbished technology prioritised across government.

UK Government Strengthens Circular IT Procurement in 2026;

On 18 February 2026, the UK Government announced further steps to embed circular IT principles into public sector procurement, including prioritising refurbished and remanufactured hardware where suitable.

This move builds on the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs Digital Sustainability Strategy 2025–2030, reinforcing commitments to reduce carbon emissions, extend device lifecycles and tackle the growing challenge of electronic waste.

What this means in practice

The update is not simply a statement of intent. It sets clear expectations for how technology should be sourced across government departments.

Refurbished devices will be considered first where they meet required security and performance standards. This ensures that sustainability does not compromise operational effectiveness or data protection.

By extending the life of existing hardware, the government can significantly reduce embodied carbon. The majority of a device’s carbon footprint is created during manufacturing, so reusing equipment delivers immediate environmental benefits compared with purchasing new.

The policy will also help reduce electronic waste across departments, easing pressure on disposal systems and cutting the environmental impact associated with discarded technology.

Importantly, it aligns public sector procurement with Net Zero and broader circular economy objectives. It also sets a visible example for private sector organisations reviewing their own corporate social responsibility and ESG strategies.

From policy to procurement

This is procurement in action.

For years, sustainability strategies have outlined ambitions around reuse and lifecycle extension. The latest announcement demonstrates a practical shift away from a traditional take make dispose model towards a reuse extend optimise approach.

Circular IT is about more than cost savings. It is about responsible leadership, long term value and measurable environmental impact. By prioritising refurbished and remanufactured hardware where appropriate, the government is showing that sustainability and operational efficiency can work together.

Sustainable IT is no longer optional. It is fast becoming the benchmark for responsible organisations across both the public and private sectors.

The direction is clear. Circular procurement is not a future ambition. It is happening now.