Understanding Stakeholders Opinions and Behaviours as a Way to Shape Circular Economy Policies in the Water and Wastewater Sector

Abstract

Protection of water resources is one of the most urgent elements of climate policy; therefore, a circular economy (ce) model should be implemented. In the case of water, circular principles include sustainable management of water coming from primary sources, as well as water recovery from water‐based waste (as wastewater or grey water) and its reuse for various purposes. These activities can be successfully implemented by residents of European countries. This paper analyses attitudes, opinions and behaviours on the management of water resources in individual households in Poland. For this purpose, a survey questionnaire method was used, which was developed and distributed to adult citizens of the country. A total of 511 responses were received in April 2024. The results showed that almost all Polish consumers (96%) are aware of the importance of water saving, while 84% of respondents agree that saving water helps protect the environment, and 91% believe that it can reduce water bill costs. Despite this high awareness, not all respondents indicate the most easily accessible methods of saving water, such as drinking tap water, taking a shower instead of bathing or turning off the tap during everyday activities such as brushing teeth. The results of this study could be further used to shape future policies regarding the implementation of CE in the water sector. The most important area for regulation is the scope of educational activities within both formal and informal education, as well as the use of effective methods in social campaigns. Moreover, realising the European Commission's ambitious goals of CE transition requires further governmental support for individual households and setting a regulations or guidelines with clear benefits for stakeholders. Effective collaboration among Quadruple Helix representatives—business, science, government and society—is also essential to unlock the full potential of CE principles in this sector.