The architecture of procurement in sustainable and zero-emission neighborhood projects—strategic challenges and new realities

Abstract

As an intermediate layer located between buildings and cities, neighborhoods are considered critical with regard to the transition to low-carbon cities and zero-emission societies. Sustainable and zero-emission neighborhood (ZEN) projects can be characterized as both complex and multi-organizational. However, there is currently only limited research available concerning collaboration among organizations in relation to ZEN projects. In particular, there is a lack of evidence as to how lead organizations arrange procurement for ZEN projects. Using a case study approach, this paper explores the potential of procurement to serve as a system integrator in ZEN projects. Our findings indicate that system integration by means of procurement in ZEN projects is difficult due to several challenges.