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Circular Economy and Water Sustainability: Systematic Review of Water Management Technologies and Strategies (2018–2024)

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  • Gary Christiam Farfán Chilicaus

    (Institute for Research in Science and Technology, César Vallejo University, Campus Chepén-Callao, Trujillo 13001, Peru)

  • Luis Edgardo Cruz Salinas

    (Institute for Research in Science and Technology, César Vallejo University, Campus Chepén-Callao, Trujillo 13001, Peru)

  • Pedro Manuel Silva León

    (Institute for Research in Science and Technology, César Vallejo University, Campus Chepén-Callao, Trujillo 13001, Peru)

  • Danny Alonso Lizarzaburu Aguinaga

    (Institute for Research in Science and Technology, César Vallejo University, Campus Chepén-Callao, Trujillo 13001, Peru)

  • Persi Vera Zelada

    (School of Forestry and Environmental Engineering, National Autonomous University of Chota, Chota 06120, Peru)

  • Luis Alberto Vera Zelada

    (Faculty of Engineering, Professional School of Mining Engineering, National University of Cajamarca, Cajamarca 06001, Peru)

  • Elmer Ovidio Luque Luque

    (Faculty of Engineering, Professional School of Mining Engineering, National University of Cajamarca, Cajamarca 06001, Peru)

  • Rolando Licapa Redolfo

    (Faculty of Engineering Sciences, National University of Huancavelica, Huancavelica 09000, Peru)

  • Emma Verónica Ramos Farroñán

    (Institute for Research in Science and Technology, César Vallejo University, Campus Chepén-Callao, Trujillo 13001, Peru)

Abstract

The transition toward a circular water economy addresses accelerating water scarcity and pollution. A PRISMA-2020 systematic review of 50 peer-reviewed articles (January 2018–April 2024) mapped current technologies and management strategies, seeking patterns, barriers, and critical bottlenecks. Bibliometric analysis revealed the following three dominant patterns: (i) rapid diffusion of membrane bioreactors, constructed wetlands, and advanced oxidation processes; (ii) research geographically concentrated in Asia and the European Union; (iii) industry’s marked preference for by-product valorization. Key barriers—high energy costs, fragmented regulatory frameworks, and low social acceptance—converge as critical constraints during scale-up. The following three practical action lines emerge: (1) adopt progressive tariffs and targeted tax credits that internalize environmental externalities; (2) harmonize water-reuse regulations with comparable circularity metrics; (3) create multi-actor platforms that co-design projects, boosting local legitimacy. These findings provide policymakers and water-sector practitioners with a clear roadmap for accelerating Sustainable Development Goals 6, 9, and 12 through circular, inclusive, low-carbon water systems.

Suggested Citation

  • Gary Christiam Farfán Chilicaus & Luis Edgardo Cruz Salinas & Pedro Manuel Silva León & Danny Alonso Lizarzaburu Aguinaga & Persi Vera Zelada & Luis Alberto Vera Zelada & Elmer Ovidio Luque Luque & Ro, 2025. "Circular Economy and Water Sustainability: Systematic Review of Water Management Technologies and Strategies (2018–2024)," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(14), pages 1-31, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:14:p:6544-:d:1703862
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Piubello Orsini, Luca & Leardini, Chiara & Danesi, Letizia & Guerrini, Andrea & Frison, Nicola, 2023. "Circular economy in the water and wastewater sector: Tariff impact and financial performance of SMARTechs," Utilities Policy, Elsevier, vol. 83(C).
    2. Delgado, A. & Rodriguez, D.J. & Amadei, C.A. & Makino, M., 2024. "Water in Circular Economy and Resilience (WICER) Framework," Utilities Policy, Elsevier, vol. 87(C).
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    1. Estefânia Hetman de Almeida Caciato & Cândido Ferreira da Silva Filho & Samuel Carvalho De Benedicto & Vinícius Eduardo Ferrari & Duarcides Ferreira Mariosa & Diego de Melo Conti & Bruna Angela Branch, 2025. "Comparative Study of ESG Practices Among Brazilian Sanitation Companies," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(16), pages 1-14, August.

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