How the circular economy is transforming waste into value

26 March 2025

This month on CIWEM’s Planet Possible podcast, a discussion of innovative approaches to circular economy solutions, from community-led projects to large-scale resource recovery in the water sector

A recent report by the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit showed that between 2023 and 2024 the net zero economy in the UK grew by 10 per cent and now generates £83 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA), with every pound of value creating an additional £1.89 in the wider economy.

In the wake of the publication of that report, this month’s Planet Possible podcast sees host Niki Roach explore the circular economy with two experts working to make it a reality. Sue Jefferson is co-founder of Circular Malton and Norton, a not-for-profit community interest company based in North Yorkshire, while Rick Lancaster is global bioresources director at the consultancy AtkinsRéalis.

Their discussion highlights how waste can be turned into valuable resources, whether through community-driven initiatives or industry-led innovation in the water sector, and explores the growing momentum behind circular economy projects and how individuals, businesses, and the water industry are rethinking waste and unlocking its potential.

If you enjoy this taster, you can listen to the full conversation here or search for Planet Possible in your favourite podcast app. Follow the podcast to stay updated on our monthly deep dives into pressing environmental challenges.

Planet Possible shares the stories of those driving positive environmental and societal change, from climate resilience to nature restoration. So join Niki as she explores what's possible with practitioners and visionaries working on the big issues, from resilience to climate change, to enhancing our natural environment, to improving equality, diversity and inclusion in the environment sector.

You’ll find the Planet Possible MiniPod on the same feed, bringing you a monthly 15-minute burst of topical environmental discussion with some of the leading voices in water and environmental management.

Now, over to Niki, Sue, and Rick…

Niki Roach: Sue, let’s start with your work in Malton and Norton. What does it mean to create a circular economy market town?

Sue Jefferson: It’s about keeping resources in circulation – rethinking energy and waste while involving everyone. It’s about returning to a ‘make do and mend’ mindset where resources are valued. It benefits the economy, people and the environment. We aim to create a model town that can be replicated across the country.

NR: That’s a great way to explain it. And Rick, how does the circular economy apply to the water sector?

Rick Lancaster: It’s about recovering valuable resources from waste – whether that’s water, sewage sludge (which we refine into biosolids) or organic waste. There’s a shift from seeing waste as a problem to recognising its potential. This is key to resilience, self-sufficiency and achieving net zero. We’re investing in technologies that recover phosphorus, hydrogen and even sustainable aviation fuel.

NR: How does the UK compare internationally in adopting these approaches?

RL: We’re making progress, but there’s room for growth. Countries like the Netherlands, Australia and Scandinavia have been more aggressive in implementing circular water systems. However, the UK is catching up, with initiatives such as the UK Water Partnership and the Ofwat Innovation Fund driving momentum.

NR: What resource recovery efforts are already working, and what’s next?

RL: Water reuse, grit recovery and heat recapture are relatively straightforward but still underutilised. More advanced developments include bio-based products, such as cellulose extracted from wastewater, and converting biosolids into sustainable aviation fuel. The UK, EU and US have ambitious targets for scaling this up.

King Charles learning more about the Circular Malton and Norton project

NR: Sue, tell us about your anaerobic digestion project.

SJ: We’re building a community anaerobic digestion (AD) plant that will turn food waste into renewable energy. A small electric vehicle collects waste from local businesses, and the digester converts it into heat and power. This will provide energy to local businesses and educate residents about food waste and sustainability.

NR: How did you secure community support?

SJ: Transparency and engagement. We addressed concerns upfront and got planning permission with zero objections – a first in the AD sector. People see it as a positive investment in their town. Our broader initiatives, such as the upcycling shop and repair cafes, also help people get involved.

NR: What needs to happen to scale the circular economy in the UK?

RL: Collaboration is key. We need industry and government to create demand, prioritise resource recovery and implement incentives similar to those for renewable energy.

SJ: Funding is crucial. Our projects are financially sustainable in the long term, but initial investment is a barrier. More funding would help us scale much faster.

NR: If I gave you the Planet Possible magic wand, what would you wish for?

RL: For resource recovery to become a normal part of operations, embedded in every industry.

SJ: Funding to accelerate circular economy projects across the UK.

There’s much more where that came from – listen to the full conversation here, including insights into sustainable aviation fuel, phosphorus recovery, and global circular economy innovations. You can search for Planet Possible in your favourite podcast app.