Circular Bioeconomy Toward Net-Zero Emission Urban Systems Through FEW Nexus Approach

Katia Sakihama Ventura (), Gabriela Oviedo Mena (), Laura de Oliveira Battistini Pestana () and Jie Zhuang ()
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Katia Sakihama Ventura: Federal University of São Carlos, Department of Civil Engineering
Gabriela Oviedo Mena: Continental University, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
Laura de Oliveira Battistini Pestana: Federal University of São Carlos, Postgraduate Program of Urban Engineering
Jie Zhuang: The University of Tennessee, Department of Biosystems Engineering and Soil Science

Chapter Chapter 17 in Handbook of Circular Bioeconomy, 2026, pp 359-395 from Springer

Abstract: Abstract The circular bioeconomy (CBE) presents a pathway for cities to transition from linear consumption models to sustainable urban systems. By repurposing agricultural by-products, industrial waste, and municipal residues, CBE fosters regenerative cycles, reducing environmental impact, and enhancing resource efficiency. However, technological limitations, governance gaps, and financial barriers hinder large-scale implementation. The Food–Energy–Water (FEW) nexus approach is highlighted as an integrated framework for optimizing urban metabolism, facilitating synergies among energy production, water recycling, and food security. Despite its potential, challenges arise due to insufficient policy support, lack of technical expertise among municipal authorities, and the concentration of investments within the private sectors. Cities account for 70% of global carbon emissions and 75% of natural resource consumption, underscoring the urgency of mitigating environmental degradation. The study underscores the importance of multilevel governance, inclusive policies, and technological innovation to accelerate urban circularity. Future research should quantify the long-term benefits of integrating CBE and FEW, while aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050, ensuring equitable access to sustainable solutions.

Keywords: Urban ecosystem; City metabolism; Sustainable solutions; Governance; Sociobioeconomy; Food-energy-water (FEW) (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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DOI: 10.1007/978-3-032-07112-5_17

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