Synergizing Environmental Sustainability: Unveiling the Nexus between Life Cycle Analysis and Circular Economy in the Water Sector

Abstract

Over-extraction and pollution surge have created a serious management challenge for the world's water resources. Rising demand, inadequate water resource management infrastructure and unequal distribution intensify the scarcity crisis. Sustainable solutions are necessary to ensure availability, environmental conservation and resilience in the face of escalating water challenges worldwide. In today's world, the primary goal is to mitigate impact on resources. Thus, life cycle analysis (LCA), a widely embraced methodology for impact assessment can be applied for sustainable management of resources. Circular economy (CE) is the new sustainable approach by which we can reduce the waste generation by reusing and recycling the products to form a loop. Utilising LCA, environmental consequences of human activities and developing solutions for reducing waste, can put CE into practice effectively. Transforming waste into a valuable resource, whether through natural or scientific means, plays a pivotal role in advancing the principles of circular economy. The detailed application of LCA and the efficient incorporation of CE principles contribute significantly to environmental sustainability. This study articulates the interplay between CE and LCA, outlining key steps in water management. It provides a comprehensive overview of literature on life cycle analysis and circular economy, specifically focusing on their major applications in the water and wastewater treatment domain. To successfully apply circular economy, future research should concentrate on improving the processes for incorporating circular economy ideas into life cycle assessments (LCAs) and encouraging cooperation between academicians, decision-makers and stake holders.