Assessing circularity of multi-sectoral systems under the Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystems (WEFE) nexus

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Circular Economy Studies
• Water Resource Management

Background:

• The Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystems (WEFE) nexus presents complex challenges for resource management.
• Existing circularity assessment frameworks require enhancement for comprehensive evaluation.
• The Multi-Sectoral Water Circularity Assessment (MSWCA) provides a foundational methodology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To expand the MSWCA methodology for a systematic approach to indicator selection.
• To integrate circular economy (CE) principles and sustainable development goals (SDGs) into water circularity assessment.
• To differentiate between benchmark and dynamic circularity assessments.

Main Methods:

• Systematic expansion of the MSWCA framework.
• Inclusion of circular actions, multi-functionality, and implemented changes in indicator selection.
• Application of benchmark and dynamic assessment approaches.
• Case study application within the HYDROUSA H2020 project's water system.

Main Results:

• Benchmark assessment shows a 75% increase in water circularity and a 14% reduction in carbon footprint.
• Nutrient circularity increased by 76-80% in the benchmark assessment.
• Dynamic assessment indicates potential for 94% water circularity with additional measures and risk mitigation.

Conclusions:

• The expanded MSWCA offers a robust framework for assessing water circularity within the WEFE nexus.
• The methodology effectively captures system improvements and potential for enhanced circularity.
• The findings demonstrate significant improvements in resource circularity and carbon footprint reduction, with potential for further gains.