The importance of resource recovery in the water industry is increasing, not only as a means for mitigating its impact on the environment, but also for stimulating circular economy opportunities. Over recent years, water companies have been focused on energy as a resource to be recovered. However, there are still numerous unexploited opportunities that can be unlocked through research and innovation activities. Circular economy approaches will play a key role in delivering net zero by 2040 across the water sector in a changing climate, and will require a multidisciplinary approach to develop and deliver opportunities at pace.