Circular Economy Models in Water and Wastewater Sectors

Water is critical for life on Earth and for purification. However, there has recently been a concern regarding the availability of water due to increasing demand from a growing population. This has put more pressure on water providers to supply safe drinking water despite there being various sources of pollution and climate change. To tackle these problems, circular economy (CE) models in water and wastewater sectors have been proposed. These models focus on a strategy of reducing, reusing, recycling, reclaiming, recovering, and restoring water. This work discusses how water can be saved by applying CE models in water and wastewater sectors based on the principles of CE and application models, including those that use artificial intelligence (AI). Various operational benefits can result from the implementation of CE models which have a basis of circularity in water, which increase efficiency and provide various revenue streams. The waste-to-wealth strategy with a circular water economy is highlighted. In addition to the operational benefits, the carbon footprint associated with water is considered. For further development, investment and a legal framework are needed. In summary, the implementation of CE has both challenges and opportunities for water and wastewater sectors.