Offshore wind (OW) power has been an environmental drive and a focus for decarbonisation for many years. Now the industry has become established and is progressing on a significant growth trajectory, the growing scale of OW brings new sustainability challenges and attention is shifting from concentrating purely on reducing the Levelised Cost of Energy, to how the industry can adopt circular economy at its core.

Many factors influence decisions to pursue more sustainable business practices, leading to implementing policies and procurement processes to encourage action from supply chains. This study provides a review of the drivers for implementing circular economy practices in the context of operational and end of life decisions; supply chains and emerging markets. Governmental intervention has potential for creating maximum uptake of circular economy practices. Specifically, regulation, legislation and new laws can promote more sustainable, circular economy principles, promoted through tax incentives or fines and strict governance.

Some companies are taking action towards more sustainable business practices without legislative interventions. Producing regular sustainability reports and promote their corporate Net Zero targets, climate pledge, sustainability priorities, action areas and policies openly on their websites. Examples include: Delaying the decommissioning or repowering an OW farm until necessary vessels are available with alternative sustainable carbon free fuel or power supply (e.g. electric, hydrogen, biofuel, etc.). Tendering for sustainable solutions for equipment and materials when decommissioned. Materials to be reused or recycled close to the site, reducing emissions from transportation. Collaboration towards research projects for more sustainable end of life solutions. Requiring full traceability with respect to human rights, modern slavery, environmental and carbon emissions regulations and standards.