Abstract
This report presents the results of an analysis of the policy landscapes and regulatory frameworks surrounding the innovations demonstrated in WIDER UPTAKE, and how these
conditions influence the transition pathways associated with the respective solutions. An extended policy mix concept is applied, to shed light on the consistency and coherence of
policies and instruments across levels, sectors, and action situations. Regarding consistency, policy alignment is improving within the EU. However, we also identify certain tensions
between elements at the EU and national levels, and between objectives and embedded interests in different sector policies. In terms of comprehensiveness, we argue that there is
a need to pay more attention to the target users of the reclaimed water and products based on recovered resources, to build acceptance and generate the demand needed to establish
viable value chains. Besides case-specific recommendations, we identify three overarching implications: 1) need for increased coordination and collaboration – across levels, sectors,
and regions, 2) CE solutions based on water resources must be further incentivised, and 3) future policy must pay more attention to the values in water and how they best can be
realised, to maximise economic, social, and environmental sustainability.