Bridging Circular Economy and Water Sustainability: A CWQN-Based Comparative Study of Urban and Rural Systems in Konkan

Civil Engineering

This study examines how Circular Economy (CE) principles can strengthen water and waste management systems in the ecologically sensitive Konkan region of western India. The area faces increasing pressure from climate change, rapid urbanization, infrastructure gaps, and socio-spatial disparities that collectively degrade local water quality. To address these challenges, the research integrates secondary data, policy analysis, case studies, and a community perception survey conducted across rural and semi-urban locations such as Ratnagiri, Dapoli, and Chiplun. A major contribution of this study is the development of the Circular Water-Quality Nexus (CWQN) model, a conceptual framework that connects climate stressors, waste flows, community behaviours, and key water quality indicators such as BOD, DO, and turbidity. The model illustrates how context-sensitive circular interventions—ranging from greywater recycling and decentralized treatment systems in urban areas to composting, rainwater harvesting, and community-led sanitation initiatives in rural settings can collectively reduce ecological pressures and improve local resilience. Survey results reveal a notable awareness–practice gap: while residents demonstrate general understanding of waste segregation and water reuse, actual adoption remains limited due to infrastructural, behavioural, and informational barriers. Comparative analysis of urban and rural systems further highlights how CE strategies must be tailored to each setting’s unique socio-environmental conditions. Overall, the findings show that CE-driven water management, supported by participatory governance, digital monitoring, and locally relevant solutions, can offer a viable pathway for enhancing water sustainability in regions like Konkan. The study emphasizes that integrating community engagement with CE interventions is essential for building long-term environmental resilience and guiding future policy directions.

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