A framework to assess circularity of potable water through its lifecycle

Lutendo D. Rambau, Paul T. Mativenga, Annlizé L. Marewick

Research output: Contribution to journalConference articlepeer-review

1 Citation (Scopus)

Abstract

The United Nations estimated that by 2030 the world will face a 40% shortfall in the water it needs. There is a strong sustainability case to adopt circular practices in how water resources are used and do more with less water. This will help where water is scarce, reduce pollution and capture additional value. In this context, circularity indicators are useful to measure the transition from linear to circular economy as well as the progress of circular strategies towards sustainable development. This research presents the supply chain system for delivery of potable drinking water, identifying the circularity options and reviewing existing circular economy metrics to develop principles for assessing the circularity of water. Although there are a number of circularity assessment frameworks, most frameworks focus on consumer goods and their transferability to the water sector has to be examined. In this context, this paper defines the essential pillars of a circularity metric for water and thus contributes to the evolving thinking on a new framework for circularity of water considering its supply chain, the solution space and sustainable development.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)501-506
Number of pages6
JournalProcedia CIRP
Volume105
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2022
Event29th CIRP Conference on Life Cycle Engineering, LCE 2022 - Leuven, Belgium
Duration: 4 Apr 20226 Apr 2022

Keywords

  • Circular Economy
  • circularity
  • recycling
  • South Africa
  • Water

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Control and Systems Engineering
  • Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering

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