We explore ways to get the most out of water by reducing waste production and recovering waste materials and residuals as a valuable resource. This includes technological innovation as well as ways to establish viable supply chains. We examine the financial and economic cases for individual investments in circular economy. And also the importance of consumer perceptions in determining the acceptability of such investments.

Most future visions of sustainability incorporate the concept of the circular economy. As well as reducing the consumption of natural resources, it could create new economic and job opportunities. Water is a key factor in the circular economy as it is used in many production processes. Furthermore, the water cycle can provide important resources, comprising water, nutrients, metals, grits and sands and feedstocks for biofuels or bioplastics.