Dealing with climate change implications on the nexus of water, energy, and food

Closed

Natasya Evita Putri Rosanti

2025 Climate Change Impacts on the Water-Energy-Food Nexus: Net Zero Emissions and Sustainability Book chapter Cited by 0 Quartile

Abstract

Climate change is causing major challenges in how we manage water, energy, and food (WEF). These three resources are deeply connected in what is called the WEF nexus. For example, water is needed to grow food and produce energy, energy is required to treat and move water, and food production depends on both water and energy. When one resource is affected, it creates problems for the others. Climate change, with its extreme weather, rising temperatures, and shortages of resources, makes managing these connections even more difficult. The WEF nexus approach helps us understand how these resources work together and how decisions in one area can impact the others. This approach allows us to manage resources in a smarter way to avoid waste, reduce conflicts, and make sure everyone has access to what they need. For example, farmers can use advanced irrigation systems to save water and grow crops that require less water. In the energy sector, switching to renewable energy like solar and wind can help reduce pollution and make energy supplies more reliable. Governments can also create better policies to ensure that WEF are managed as one system, rather than as separate issues. To secure WEF for the future, it is important for governments, businesses, and communities to work together. By using smarter farming practices, supporting renewable energy, and managing resources in a more thoughtful way, we can reduce the impacts of climate change and make sure these resources are available for everyone. The WEF nexus approach is a key tool to help us create fair and sustainable systems that benefit both people and the planet. It provides a pathway to balance human needs with environmental care, ensuring a better future for generations to come. © 2026 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Affiliations

Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Universitas Brawijaya, East Java, Malang, Indonesia