A Novel Integrated Circular Economy Framework for Public Water Infrastructure Systems: Integrating Global Strategies with National Policy Insights

Authors: Tanay Kulkarni

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15029759

Short DOI: https://doi.org/g88gpk

Country: USA

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Abstract: Public water infrastructure systems are critical components of urban sustainability yet continue to operate under linear paradigms that contribute to resource depletion, environmental degradation, and escalating operational costs. This research proposes a novel integrated circular economy (CE) framework for public water infrastructure systems that combines global best practices with insights drawn from China’s pioneering national circular economy indicator system. By synthesizing key concepts from studies on CE in water and wastewater management, digital innovations, and policy‐driven governance models (e.g., Bleischwitz, Geng, & Sarkis, 2019; Ghisellini, Cialani, &Ulgiati, 2015; Joensuu et al., 2020; Potting et al., 2017; Preston, 2012; Smol, Adam, & Preisner, 2020; Velasco-Muñoz et al., 2021), and incorporating findings from national indicator research in China (Geng et al., 2012), the framework advocates for a system that emphasizes reduction, reclamation, reuse, recycling, recovery, and – critically – rethinking of water value chains. Digital technologies such as IoT sensors, digital twins, and big data analytics are integrated to facilitate real-time monitoring and adaptive management. Furthermore, the paper discusses how comprehensive policy instruments and measurable performance indicators can drive the transition from linear to circular water management. The proposed framework offers a pathway for decoupling economic growth from resource use, enhancing resilience, and improving the overall sustainability of public water infrastructure.

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Paper Id: 232240

Published On: 2024-02-07

Published In: Volume 12, Issue 1, January-February 2024

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