The Water, Energy, Food, and Ecosystem (WEFE) Nexus is an integrated framework that highlights the interconnections and interdependencies between water, energy, food, and ecosystems. It emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to managing these resources sustainably to ensure security and resilience in the face of growing global challenges such as climate change, population growth, and environmental degradation.
Key Components:
- Water – Essential for food production, energy generation, and ecosystem health.
- Energy – Required for water treatment, irrigation, and food production.
- Food – Dependent on water and energy, with significant impacts on ecosystems.
- Ecosystems – Provide essential services such as water purification, climate regulation, and biodiversity support.
The WEFE Nexus approach promotes resource efficiency, sustainability, and cross-sectoral coordination to minimize trade-offs and maximize synergies in resource management.