We explore ways to get the most out of water by reducing waste production as much as possible and recovering waste materials and residuals as a valuable resource. This includes technological innovation as well as ways to establish viable supply chains. We also examine the financial and economic cases for individual investments in circular economy, and the importance of consumer perceptions in determining the acceptability of such investments.
Almost all future visions of sustainability endorse or incorporate the concept of the circular economy. As well as reducing the consumption of natural resources, it potentially creates new economic opportunities 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.