Natalia Spataru
We are delighted to share insights from a recent presentation by Natalia Spataru, a PhD candidate at the University of Birmingham and an Early-Stage Researcher within the Sapiens Network. Natalia conducts her research under the supervision of Professor Martin Trybus (University of Birmingham), with additional supervision by Professor Roberto Caranta (University of Turin) and Doctor Henok Asmelash (University of Birmingham). Her work focuses on the procurement chapters of third-generation Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and their role in promoting sustainability.
Why Sustainability in Public Buying Matters
In her presentation, Natalia explains that the shift from purely economic development to sustainable development is crucial. She envisions a society where ecosystems thrive, human rights are upheld, and there is a balance between individual freedom and collective solidarity. For her, sustainable development means balancing societal, environmental, and economic dimensions to enhance quality of life. Integrating sustainability into public procurement is essential because it leverages government spending power to drive positive environmental and social outcomes.
The Focus of Natalia’s Research
Natalia’s research zeroes in on the procurement chapters of third-generation FTAs and their potential to advance sustainability. Public procurement represents a significant portion of GDP, about 14% in the EU, and is a powerful tool for shaping sustainable practices. By embedding sustainability into procurement policies, such as environmental protection and improved labour standards, governments can influence broader market behaviours.
The Role of Free Trade Agreements
FTAs are traditionally designed to reduce trade barriers, but since 2011, the EU has been incorporating trade and sustainable development chapters into its agreements. These chapters aim to foster international trade that contributes to sustainable development, emphasizing cooperation on social and environmental issues. However, the public procurement chapters within these agreements often focus more on market access than on sustainability. Natalia’s work investigates whether these chapters could increasingly incorporate sustainability considerations.
Contribution to Society and Future Implications
By analyzing the domestic, regional, and international regulation of sustainability in public procurement, Natalia aims to identify both national objectives and the impact of international agreements. Her research is groundbreaking in that it explores how FTAs can be structured to support sustainable procurement on a global scale. This work not only contributes to academic knowledge but also provides practical insights for policymakers and trade negotiators aiming to embed sustainability into trade agreements.
In conclusion, Natalia’s research illuminates the significant potential of integrating sustainability into public procurement through FTAs. Her work underscores the importance of using economic policies to drive sustainable development, setting a foundation for future studies and practical applications in international trade.
See also this video link about Natalia’s research.