Circular Economy Approaches in Industrial Wastewater Management Across Asia: Policy Frameworks, Water Reuse, and Resource Recovery Opportunities

Abstract

The conventional linear “treat-and-discharge” model has been challenged due to rapid urbanisation and the increasing generation of complex industrial wastewater. To this end, circular economy (CE) approaches can be considered as a key strategy for resource efficiency, sustainability, and waste reduction. The current study aims to review CE principles in industrial wastewater management policies across Asian countries. Findings from our review indicate that countries such as Singapore, Japan, South Korea, and China have made significant progress through integrated institutional frameworks, standards of reclaimed water, eco-industrial park initiatives, advanced treatment technologies, and supportive policy mechanisms. However, some developing Asian economies still depend primarily on pollution-control regulations and effluent discharge compliance; have limited guidelines on application-specific water-reuse quality standards, limited financial and tax incentives for SMEs, and inadequate policy support for resource recovery and wastewater valorisation. Strengthening these policy and institutional frameworks can promote circular industrial wastewater management, thus enhancing water security, resource efficiency, and sustainable industrial development across Asia.