This chapter examines the historical trajectory and future potential of waste management, tracing its evolution from rudimentary disposal methods to sophisticated, sustainability-oriented circular systems. It begins by surveying ancient and industrial-era waste practices, illustrating the emergence of the linear economy and its associated environmental costs. A bibliometric analysis maps the global research trends from 2015 to 2024, revealing an exponential rise in academic interest in circular economy models. The chapter then presents influential frameworks such as Cradle-to-Cradle, Industrial Symbiosis, and Doughnut Economies that are reshaping policy and industrial practice. Real-world applications are illustrated through case studies from Amsterdam, San Francisco, IKEA, and Philips, demonstrating successful strategies for municipal, corporate, and technological circular economies. The chapter further extends to global challenges, best practices, and governance frameworks, concluding with a phased roadmap to mainstream circularity by 2050. This chapter situates the circular economy not just as an environmental imperative, but as a transformative principle for global economic and social systems.