In a newly published framework from the IWA: Water Utility Pathways in a Circular Economy, transitionary pathways for utilities are described, that position them as engines for sustainable growth. The framework presents three interrelated pathways – water, materials and energy – that aim to help utilities identify integration points within systems that enable their transition to the circular economy. Examples from the framework include energy production at the water distribution network, and recovery of fertilisers or bio-plastics from wastewater.