Circular economy drivers, opportunities, and barriers, for wastewater services within low- and medium-income countries

Abstract

The Circular Economy (CE) emerges as an alternative to the long-standing linear economy. While beneficial, the linear model has fallen short in addressing current cross-sectoral challenges. This study identifies the drivers, opportunities, and barriers for transitioning to a circular economy within the wastewater services sector in low-to medium-income countries (LMICs). Utilizing case studies from LMICs, the study provides pathways to transition from the current linear model to the circular economy within the wastewater services sector in LMICs. Key barriers identified include financial constraints, uncertainty among stakeholders, weak governance structures, and limited public awareness leading to health concerns and marketability issues. Drivers for circularity include recognizing wastewater as a valuable resource for revenue generation, leveraging smart technologies, and ensuring sustainability compliance. Opportunities include improving sector governance, enhancing water security, and promoting human and environmental health through demand management, resource diversification, and nutrient recovery. The study advocates for proactive management, effective partnerships, and sustainable business practices to accelerate the transition to a circular economy, emphasizing the need for prioritized resources in awareness, training, and innovative infrastructure development.