Background and aim ʹ Many countries signed the Paris Agreement to mitigate global average
temperature rise. In this context, Dutch government decided to realize a reduction of 50% using
resources and raw materials in 2030. This paper explores how practice-based research into facility
operations can contribute to this aim.
Methods / Methodology ʹ Practice-based research which includes direct observations, desk research,
and participatory action research.
Results ʹ This explorative research presents principles and suggestions for facility managers and
procurement managers on how they can embed sustainable materials management in the organisation
and how to take control of waste. The proposed suggestions are derived from practice-based research
and presented as topics of attention for facility professionals.
Originality ʹ Within education of Dutch universities of applied sciences and daily professional facility
practices, the phenomenon of materials management is underexposed. To contribute to the national
and international climate objectives, (future) facility professionals need better support to reduce waste.
Bachelor students were involved throughout this research. This approach gave refreshing insights into
waste at the end of the supply chain (control separation units) that can improve informed decisionmaking at the beginning of the supply chain.
Practical or social implications ʹ Facility management professionals have an important role to play in the
mitigation of global average temperature rise, because of their leading role in procurement, service
operations, and materials management. However, they struggle to find sustainable solutions. This paper
seeks to inspire professionals with interventions that have proven effectiveness on the reduction of
waste.
Type of paper ʹ Short research paper.