Wastewater treatment involves the extraction of pollutants, removal of coarse particles, and elimination of toxicants. Moreover, wastewater treatment kills pathogens and produces bio-methane and fresh manure for agricultural production. The connection between waste management and sustainability created the basis for this research. Wastewater treatment is part of the efforts to minimize water waste, minimize pressure on natural sources of water, and create a pathway for clean energy. A systematic literature review was selected for this study to evaluate and synthesize the available evidence in support of wastewater treatment for both economic and environmental sustainability. The articles were evaluated using the PRISMA framework to identify the most appropriate articles for inclusion. A total of 46 articles were selected based on their content validity, relevance to the research question, strength of evidence, year of publication (2000–2023), and relevance to sustainable resource management. The findings indicate that wastewater treatment enables sustainable resource management by improving the supply of clean water, and minimizing pressure on natural resources, energy recovery, and agricultural support. Wastewater treatment provides one of the most sustainable approaches to water conservation, energy production, and agricultural productivity.

More than 4 billion people yearly suffer from global water scarcity amid climate change, rapid population growth, and growing industrial activity. Due to the high concentrations of recalcitrant organic compounds, refractory wastewater is highly resistant to conventional biological treatment and represents a critical obstacle for water reuse and sustainable water management. A systematic literature review of 35 peer-reviewed articles published from 2010 to 2025 is provided to evaluate the utilization and sustainability potential of advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) for treating recalcitrant wastewater. Using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) framework, the review assesses numerous AOPs, such as ozonation, UV/H₂O₂, Fenton reactions, and photocatalysis, while also evaluating their performance, efficiency, and integration ability. The results show that AOPs demonstrate pollutant removal rates often greater than 96%, reduce sludge formation, and improve effluent biodegradability. They can be applied at different treatment stages, combined with any renewable energy systems, and therefore can scale and be sustained, thereby aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goal 6. AOPs provide a technically feasible and eco-friendly solution for higher quality wastewater treatment. In the face of increasing pressure on global water resources, and the urgent need for sustainable water resource management, this study offers valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners aiming to adopt resilient and circular strategies for water.

Due to climate emergencies, water stress, and fast-growing populations, many cities around the world are adopting wastewater reclamation and reuse to improve the water supply for their residents. The purpose of the paper was to investigate the effectiveness of expanding wastewater reclamation and reuse as a solution to water supply challenges for future cities. It used a systematic review of the literature to evaluate and synthesize the available evidence in support of wastewater reclamation and reuse for future cities. A model known as PRISMA was used to identify the most appropriate articles for inclusion in the study. Out of the 105 studies, a total of 46 articles were selected for analysis based on their relevance, content validity, and strength of evidence. The findings indicate that wastewater reclamation and reuse create additional sources of water for both domestic and industrial use, reducing the overall pressure on the natural water sources. Wastewater reclamation and reuse effectively increase water supply for future cities while minimizing pressure on natural resources and promoting environmental sustainability.

Although access to clean and safe water is a fundamental human right, millions of people around the world lack this essential resource. Through their CSR initiatives, companies are promoting responsible and sustainable practices to ensure the appropriate use and management of water resources. Using a systematic review and PRISMA framework, this study examined the impact of CSR initiatives on sustainable water supply. A total of 108 articles were identified, and 33 were subjected to further reviews and analysis. This study found that CSR initiatives contribute to sustainable water supply through water conservation, water stewardship, responsible supply chains, and various educational and training initiatives. This study found that CSR initiatives have been effective in transforming behaviors and converting millions of people around the world into water activists. Corporations are also leveraging new technologies to enhance efficiency in their operations and minimize excessive water waste. This study also found that corporations must build responsible business practices through ethical, economic, and environmental responsibility. Although CSR initiatives can be too costly for many organizations, businesses can reduce costs through strategic partnerships and leveraging technological innovations to promote water conservation and hygiene.

The changing stature of the environment and society, in general, necessitates a shift from the business-as-usual approaches to sustainable frameworks in the water industry. The industry’s reliance on conventional methods has created gaps in service delivery and the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals. Sustainable approaches have been implemented but are yet to reap any benefits for the foreseeable future. The flailing nature of the industry has created a need for the integration of sustainable initiatives such as the circular economy and Industry 4.0 technologies. A systematic review was conducted to determine the implementation and integration of sustainability in the water industry. The examination utilized the PRISMA framework to identify the best fit articles for inclusion. A total of 48 articles were identified that explored both the concepts of implementation and integration. The findings indicate that the circular economy initiatives will close the loops through the 6R model. Furthermore, the application of Industry 4.0 technologies such as artificial intelligence, IoT, and big data will increase the efficiency/performance of the industry. The paper has a favorable implication for society and the industry, as it recommends specific tools/interventions for sustainable water management.

The purpose of this paper is to analyse how solar energy is harnessed and implemented in Mexico. This paper presents a diachronic analysis of the divergent literature presented into the subject with the themes being divided substantially. This paper used at least five methods in the identification of the studies with the first being the use of the SCImago Institution Ranking followed by the use of Scopus for journal evaluation. SCImago was used to determine the efficiency of the journals with the Newcastle Ottawa scale allowing for the evaluation of the different case study articles presented on Mexico. The fourth tool was a 21-item STROBE checklist after which the Web of Science was used to determine the authenticity levels of the identified articles. The implementation of solar energy technologies is still novel in Mexico with private and public entities working together towards building sustainable options. In addition, it cites the divergent merits that might stem from the use of solar energy technologies. A myriad of articles has been presented concerning solar energy in Mexico, but no attempt has been made to synthesize the evidence and arguments made in this significant body of research. The subsequent review is original with its findings being valuable for current and future research.