Circular Economy
Exploring new possibilities
Under the banner of 'Circular Economy', we have committed to a process of discovery and exploration with our clients, to uncover the 'how' of becoming regenerative by design. To keep us on course, we will be guided by three fundamental principles:
- Eliminate waste and pollution
- Circulate products and materials (at their highest value)
- Regenerate nature.
Guided by this framework, we will move beyond conventional approaches and ‘last resort’ thinking to consider new possibilities that will shape the future of water. Through our Future of Water lens, we see opportunity to create functioning local economies that create, exchange and retain value. In collaboration with our clients, we will devise and demonstrate what new closed loops might look like in practice.
This means taking risks and failing fast; testing and evolving new approaches with our water clients and being ready to scale potential solutions into established, proven models. In doing so, we expect to realise new efficiencies and build resiliency with our water clients and the communities they serve. Leading to reduced supply chain risk, improved ESG (Environmental, Social & Governance) performance and enhanced social licence to operate.
Challenging the status quo
Achieving circular economy outcomes doesn’t happen overnight. Integrating regenerative design and circular principles happens in differing ways and at differing scales around the world. In pursuing more circular solutions in water, we expect to meet challenges along the way, as current business models, strategic plans and existing regulatory structures become outdated.
For our Circular Economy solutions to be viable, we will be moving beyond traditional approaches and asset boundaries to help our water clients consider new perspectives, adopt new approaches and forge new unconventional, multi-industry partnerships across economies.
To achieve this, we apply a whole-of-life lens and seek integrated opportunities with adjacent energy, waste and water market operators. Partnerships like these catalyse new ways of working, while ongoing digital transformation will be key to easing this transition, as a critical enabler for change.
Partnering on new solutions
The path towards a more sustainable future will be as unique as each of our water clients and the communities they operate in. Which is why partnership is integral to the Circular Economy solutions we are exploring.
By establishing relationships built on trust, respect and understanding, we will ensure our Future of Water Circular Economy solutions celebrate the unique characteristics – and meet the disparate demands of – communities around the world. Together with our clients, we will forge a path towards a more regenerative, sustainable future.