Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 13, 2026

Watershed Planning within a Quantitative Scenario Analysis Framework
Published on: July 24, 2016
Designing a transition towards circular economy of water: Examining practitioners' understandings in the Netherlands
Noelle M C G Lasseur1, Dirk Beukers2, Kirsty Holstead3
1Department of Public Administration and Policy, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands. noelle.lasseur@wur.nl.
Abstract:
This paper examines how new policy concepts are taken up in practice, focusing on the Circular Economy of Water (CEW) in the Netherlands. Drawing on 20 semi-structured interviews with practitioners from different governance levels, regions, and sectors, we analyze how CEW is interpreted, reshaped, and mainstreamed into existing water-governance structures. We identify six lock-ins that constrain CEW's implementation and three mechanisms through which it is mainstreamed. Our findings show that lock-ins and mainstreaming mechanisms are closely interconnected: While CEW adapts to existing systems, it can also reinforce them, at times leading to rebound effects or supporting business-as-usual practices. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the dilemmas related to CEW governance, offering insights to enhance sustainable water management practices and transformative changes. We argue that design-oriented approaches can inform how CEW is imagined and implemented, helping to reconsider whether it addresses the causes of unsustainable practices or offers temporary fixes.
Related Concept Videos
Design Example: Sustainability in Concrete Building
There are multiple approaches to achieve sustainability in a commercial concrete building. For instance, construct a concrete parking area under the building, utilizing pervious concrete paver blocks in open areas to facilitate rainwater collection through an underground cistern.
Design Example: Analyzing Capacity Contours for Flood Risk Assessment
Biological Treatment of Effluent and Waste Water
Design Example: Design of an Irrigation Channel
Quality of Water
Adaptations that Reduce Water Loss

