Addressing climate change through the water–energy–food nexus

Abstract

The water–energy–food (WEF) nexus approach can help address challenges of climate change in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Region through the integration of policies on low carbon emissions, renewable energy, water efficiency, and food security. However, implementing the WEF nexus holistic approach in practice will require a systemic integration of laws, policies, and frameworks underpinning diverse sectors to ensure coherent implementation. Drawing on Turkey’s experiences, this chapter discusses progress made, and challenges that remain, in terms of implementing a cross-sectoral and integrated approach to climate change mitigation and adaptation responses in the MENA Region. The scope and content of the WEF nexus approach are introduced. The chapter then discusses progress made in Turkey especially regarding increased investments in renewable energy. Several challenges arise, including the prioritization of energy production, and the lack of transparency in environmental impact assessments. The chapter suggests some innovative policy approaches for addressing those challenges, including the establishment of a dedicated agency with more transparent mechanisms for coordinating the WEF nexus in policy and practice.