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

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. Among the identified challenges, the most important are the complex ownership structure, the lack of supporting regulations, and the unclear mandate of the procurement department. In light of these findings, we propose a conceptual model that lead organizations could apply to support the realization of ZEN projects.