Explore the foundations of the WEF Nexus approach and its significance in sustainable development
This module explores the interdependence and interconnectedness of water, energy, and food systems. The module highlights how the demand for these critical resources is increasing due to population growth, climate change, and socio-economic development. It provides foundational knowledge of how water is essential for food production and energy generation, how energy is necessary for water extraction and food processing, and how food systems influence water and energy use.
The module also examines challenges like resource scarcity, competing demands, and the impacts of climate change. Through case studies, participants gain insights into holistic management approaches that promote sustainability and resilience.
1.1 Module introduction: Context setting and Quiz
9 minutes
Video
by Janez Sušnik
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the Water-Energy-Food (WEF) nexus, emphasizing the interconnected challenges in managing these critical resources. Participants will explore global trends in freshwater use, energy demands, and food production, with a focus on the urgent need for sustainable practices and systems thinking. Case studies highlight the environmental impacts, resource efficiencies, and policy frameworks essential for addressing global sustainability challenges. By the course's end, learners will grasp the complexities of WEF interdependencies and be equipped to contribute to integrated, multidisciplinary solutions in their fields.
Key messages
The Interconnection of Water, Energy, and Food Resources (WEF Nexus): The WEF nexus highlights the critical interdependence of water, energy, and food systems. Managing these resources requires an integrated approach to ensure sustainability and avoid resource overuse or depletion.
Challenges of Resource Consumption and Sustainability: Current trends in global freshwater withdrawals, energy production, and food demands are pushing the limits of planetary boundaries. These challenges necessitate sustainable solutions to support growing populations and future needs.
The Importance of Systems Thinking in Addressing WEF Nexus Challenges: Solving WEF nexus challenges requires a systems-thinking approach that considers the complex interactions and trade-offs between resources, ensuring informed decision-making for sustainable outcomes.
1.2 Exploring the WEF Nexus: Synergies & Trade-offs
x minutes
Video
9 minutes
Coming soon
by Janez Sušnik
1.3 Gender Perspectives in the WEF Nexus
19 March 2025
75 minutes
Webinar
by Jennifer Krueckeberg
This insightful webinar delves into the often-overlooked yet essential role women play in balancing the complex relationship between water, energy, and food (WEF) resources across Africa. Though they are key contributors in managing these interconnected systems, women frequently face barriers such as unequal access to land, water, and energy, limiting their influence in decision-making and reducing the overall efficiency of resource management. This webinar will explore the gender dynamics within the WEF-Nexus and discuss future policies aimed at improving its management. We will also focus on how social justice and equity considerations can drive meaningful change, ensuring that WEFE initiatives not only succeed locally but also promote inclusive, sustainable development for all.
This course introduces the WEF nexus, emphasizing the importance of systems thinking in addressing global challenges. Understand how ecosystems provide essential services, including water cycle regulation, soil health, and biodiversity support, while learning strategies to integrate these elements into sustainable resource management. Analyze case studies that highlight the impacts of ecosystem degradation and gain insights into innovative approaches for preservation and restoration. This course is ideal for professionals and students seeking to lead in sustainable development and environmental stewardship.
Key messages
Role of Conceptual Models in Understanding Complex Systems: Conceptual models serve as essential tools for representing, understanding, and analyzing complex systems qualitatively. They help visualize the components of a system and their interconnections, providing insights into key issues and sectoral interactions.
Steps and Approaches to Developing Conceptual Models: Conceptual models are developed in stages, starting with a high-level model to identify main sectors and links, followed by an extended model with detailed sub-sector interactions. Iterative development and gradual complexity are crucial for effectiveness.
The Importance of Stakeholder Involvement: Engaging stakeholders and local experts from diverse backgrounds ensures that conceptual models accurately represent the system under study. Their input helps refine and validate the models, making them practical for addressing real-world challenges.
1.5 Climate Sprints
10 minutes
Guide
This guide explores the OnePlanet Climate Sprint methodology, a dynamic and participatory approach to climate education. Learn how to engage participants in understanding climate change, assessing their carbon footprint, and committing to impactful actions. Through interactive exercises like the Climate Fresk and personal action planning, this workshop fosters critical thinking and collective responsibility. Designed for educators, facilitators, and sustainability leaders, this guide provides practical steps to adapt and implement Climate Sprints in diverse settings.
