Capacity-Building and the Water-Energy-Food Nexus

Critically analysing methodologies and objectives of capacity-building and the practical linkages required to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, this book looks at whether nexus thinking offers a systematic approach to combat global environmental problems and facilitate enhanced sustainable development.

Building effective and sustainable mechanisms to tackle environmental problems requires in-depth understanding of relationships between natural resources, going beyond conventional policy and siloed decision making. The Water-Energy-Food nexus has been promoted as a conceptual framework and management tool to facilitate integrated planning and practical linkages to support sustainable development. The author opens this book with an overview of capacity-building and reviews the significance of the Water-Energy-Food nexus, bringing in links to the 2030 Agenda. Climate change is highlighted as a key consideration in any conversation about natural resource use and case studies from Japan, India and China are utilised to show that whist long-term sustainable development practices are being implemented the environmental challenges across the region raise concerns about institutional capacity, economic sustainability and future of the region. Finally, through the lens of capacity building, the book suggests that whilst the Water-Energy-Food nexus may provide a new approach to sustainable development, it will not be enough to achieve long-term sustainability or extend to the lives of those most affected.

The book will be interest to scholars and students within the water, energy and agriculture sectors, sustainability governance and sustainable development. It will also be a valuable resource to those working in governmental organizations and NGOs involved in capacity building and development.