Nexus Framework Research Articles

Sustainability of Intensive Agri-Food Systems: A Socio-Economic and WEF Nexus Perspective from Southeast Spain

Evaluations of sustainability in general, and agriculture in particular, are garnering increasing attention in the literature. Measuring sustainability is clearly a matter of assessing various attributes involving numerous variables. The present study utilizes the novel Socio-Economic and Water–Energy–Food (SEWEF) Nexus framework, which allows evaluation of the sustainability of agri-food systems from a holistic perspective. The method used herein is based on the calculation of water and energy footprints, along with other key socio-economic indicators, which are adapted to the conditions of the area analyzed. Southeast Spain has developed a type of agriculture, the characteristics of which make it unique. This region practices horticultural greenhouse farming fed by an advanced water capture/usage system, employing a combination of various techniques (e.g., drip irrigation, enarenado topsoil-method using a surface sand layer to trap moisture-, hydroponic systems, small water reservoirs and computer monitoring) that allowed it to achieve a level of efficiency recognized worldwide. The case under study is a clear example of the practical utility of the “Water–Energy–Food Nexus” concept as a tool to evaluate the sustainability of a given system. Not only do the results reveal that elevated water consumption is associated with high production yields, but also with low impacts in terms of energy use and high indices of socio-economic sustainability. The study concludes that efficiency levels are very high at both physical and monetary levels, justifying the sustained implementation of this agricultural production system. Although the case study focuses on a particular area and sector, the SEWEF framework is generic and applicable across different regions and products.

Decoding the water-energy-food nexus: validating indicators amidst climate change and agro-societal shifts

The Water-Energy-Food Nexus provides a critical framework for optimizing the sustainable use of essential resources in agricultural societies. While numerous tools have been developed to study the Nexus, significant knowledge gaps remain, particularly concerning the validity of indicators that capture the complex interactions among its components. This research seeks to address these gaps by validating key indicators across three critical dimensions: (1) the economic, social, and environmental contexts, along with demographic characteristics that influence the Nexus; (2) climatic parameters that impact the Nexus; and (3) the implications of the Nexus for the development of agricultural societies. To achieve an integrated perspective, this study focuses on identifying and validating the most relevant indicators for assessing trade-offs and synergies among internal and external factors influencing resource management. A sequential mixed-method approach was employed, combining content analysis with survey techniques. The validity and suitability of key components were assessed using the Content Validity Ratio (CVR) and Content Validity Index (CVI). The results culminated in the development of a comprehensive questionnaire comprising 69 validated components across these diverse contexts. The findings reveal that the highest-ranked components include educational infrastructure, access to funding and credit platforms, environmentally sustainable agricultural systems, the impacts of climate change, and the active participation of key stakeholders. Expert panel assessments particularly highlighted the crucial role of economic and climatic factors, emphasizing their significant influence on the sustainability and balanced development of agricultural communities. These results stress the need for integrated development strategies that incorporate the Nexus framework, addressing gaps in indicator validity while promoting sustainable resource management. The study concludes with actionable policy solutions and recommendations to support the effective implementation of these strategies.

AutoGIS-driven solar pond site selection for water treatment in Africa aligned with the NEXUS framework

Access to clean and safe water remains a critical challenge across many regions in Africa. This study investigates the potential of solar ponds as wastewater treatment facilities by employing AutoGIS processing and DBSCAN clustering to identify suitable development sites across the African continent and its five regions: North, East, West, Central, and Southern Africa. By integrating environmental data such as solar radiation, wind speed, temperature, clear sky, cloud cover, and precipitation, this research highlights the effectiveness of geospatial tools in addressing clean water access issues. The findings reveal distinct suitability patterns for solar pond development at both continental and regional levels. Key environmental factors, notably direct normal radiation (DNR), temperature, and wind speed, consistently expanded the areas identified as suitable, while cloud cover demonstrated a positive effect. Precipitation showed minimal variation, particularly in Central Africa. Importantly, the study underscores the capability of DBSCAN clustering in handling large datasets, filtering noise, and capturing nuanced regional differences, which varied significantly from continent-wide trends. By streamlining the site selection process, this research offers practical insights into leveraging geospatial technologies to address water access challenges in Africa. The integration of AutoGIS and DBSCAN provides a scalable approach for analyzing complex environmental datasets, paving the way for more informed and sustainable development of wastewater treatment solutions across diverse regions.

The Food Water Energy Nexus in Agriculture: Understanding Regional Challenges and Practices to Sustainability

This study explores global research trends, regional challenges, and methodological approaches in food–water–energy (FWE) nexus research within agricultural contexts from 2000 to 2024. A bibliometric analysis of 929 articles indexed in the Web of Science and Scopus was conducted. A sharp increase in research output has been observed after 2014, with the United States and China identified as dominant contributors. European countries have been recognized as key connectors in international research networks. Thematic evolution indicates a transition from foundational concepts to more advanced approaches, incorporating machine learning, optimization techniques, and circular economy strategies. Regional disparities in research capacity and thematic focus have been highlighted, influenced by differing resource constraints and socio-economic conditions. The energy dimension of the nexus has consistently been identified as a cross-cutting challenge, primarily due to increasing energy demands in agriculture. Methodological preferences have been found to vary across regions: scenario analysis is emphasized in North America, optimization models are commonly applied in East Asia, and stakeholder-centered approaches are more prevalent in developing regions. These findings suggest a need for enhanced international collaboration, greater methodological diversity, and stronger engagement with underrepresented regions, particularly South and Southeast Asia and Africa. Strengthening the FWE nexus framework through inclusive and adaptive research strategies is essential for promoting sustainable agricultural management under increasing global resource pressures.

Smart multi-stage energy-emission nexus framework for sustainable supply-demand management and CO2 mitigation

Smart multi-stage energy-emission nexus framework for sustainable supply-demand management and CO2 mitigation

Triple Nexus Conundrums: Navigating Dual Mandate Dilemmas in UNICEF's Operational Landscape

ABSTRACTThis research explores the challenges faced by UNICEF in implementing the Triple Nexus framework, which integrates humanitarian, development and peacebuilding efforts. By focusing on the internal divide between its humanitarian and development sectors, the study reveals how cultural and institutional barriers impede a cohesive strategy. Through ethnographic and institutional analysis, the findings highlight the persistence of siloed operations despite policy reforms. The research advocates for organizational transformation, emphasizing the need for improved collaboration, knowledge‐sharing, and flexible frameworks. These changes are critical for UNICEF to align its operations and more effectively address complex crises that intersect conflict, development and humanitarian needs.

Economic Representation in Water–Energy–Food Nexus Models: A Systematic Review of System Dynamics Approaches

Water, food, and energy are vital for individual well-being and national development. However, population growth and economic expansion have significantly increased the demand for these resources, while climate change has put pressure on their availability. To address these challenges, the Water–Energy–Food (WEF) Nexus framework highlights their interconnected nature, promoting systemic management approaches. System dynamics, a methodology designed to analyse complex and interrelated systems, is well-suited for modelling the WEF Nexus, capturing feedback loops and dynamic interactions. This study evaluates the use of system dynamics in WEF Nexus modelling and examines how economic systems, a key driver of resource demand, are represented in these models. A systematic literature review was conducted following the PRISMA framework. Of 280 articles initially identified, 237 remained after removing duplicates, with 36 relevant studies analysed. The results show a dominance of water-focused and balanced WEF models but limited representation of economic systems. Among 20 studies with economic representation, 17 treated the economy as an exogenous input to estimate demand, while only 3 integrated endogenous feedback linking resource availability to economic growth. These findings reveal a significant gap in current research and underscore the need for further studies to explore the dynamic interdependence between the economy and WEF resources.

Evaluating Knowledge Management Practices in Crowdfunding Fintech: The Case of the First Crowdfunding Platform in the Philippines

This study explores Knowledge Management (KM) practices at Investree Philippines Inc., a leading fintech company in crowdfunding. Using a case study approach with mixed methods, the research evaluates how Investree's Project NEXUS framework enhances operational efficiency, drives innovation, and ensures regulatory compliance. Data were gathered through interviews, surveys, and document analysis, revealing that Project NEXUS effectively integrates KM practices across various phases, including ideation, execution, and knowledge transfer. The findings highlight Investree's strengths in fostering innovation and maintaining efficiency through centralized documentation and training. However, opportunities for improvement exist in enhancing information retrieval systems and strengthening cross-departmental collaboration. Recommendations include refining search tools and implementing structured knowledge-sharing protocols. This study provides valuable insights for fintech companies aiming to optimize their KM strategies, positioning Investree as a leader in the Philippine fintech industry and contributing to the broader understanding of KM's role in the fintech sector.

A Literature Review on the Triple Nexus Model: Developing a Comprehensive Framework

This review critically examines the Triple Nexus (TN) framework, which integrates humanitarian, development, and peacebuilding efforts to tackle protracted crises. Moving beyond linear relief-to-development models, TN advocates for flexible, integrated approaches tailored to local needs. The study identifies critical research gaps and proposes tools and metrics to operationalize TN effectively. Findings highlight the importance of meaningful community engagement and context-specific strategies to bridge the gap between theory and practice. Innovative funding, strengthened partnerships, and adaptive governance are essential for overcoming challenges such as political instability and poor coordination, particularly in fragile states. By focusing on measurable indicators—resilience, conflict reduction, and social protection—the review demonstrates TN's potential to deliver sustainable, impactful interventions. However, realizing this promise requires stronger local participation, improved evaluation tools, and more cohesive strategies. The TN framework ultimately offers a pathway to build resilient, inclusive communities capable of addressing today's interconnected global challenges.

CITY-RESILIENCE FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF THE WATER-ENERGY-SANITATION NEXUS

Urban challenges require integrative scientific knowledge, and multi-stakeholder approaches that account for local socio-ecological dynamics and interconnected urban systems. Sustainable urbanization and city resilience depend on multifunctional interventions and environmental integration to minimize impacts on human and natural systems. This article examines urban resilience through the Water-Energy-Sanitation (W-E-S) nexus, a transdisciplinary framework for addressing complex issues. Interactions among the W-E-S nexus often face desynchronized investments, profit-driven priorities, and compartmentalized management, leading to disconnected policies and increased risks. The case study of São Paulo’s Tietê River Basin, a vital area for water, energy, and sanitation services, highlights challenges like droughts, pollution, poor waste management, and reactive crisis responses, leading to recurring environmental and social issues which underscore the need for a comprehensive approach. Thus, the W-E-S nexus framework offers a pathway to more resilient urban systems through holistic and transdisciplinary planning.

Beyond Borders, Beyond Conflict: Managing the Kabul-Indus for a Shared Future

For nearly three decades, the Kabul-Indus shared river basin has been a source of tension between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Straddling the border, the basin’s water sustains about 34 million people in urban and semi-urban areas. However, perceived inequalities in water allocation and the impacts of natural disasters have hampered cooperation in managing these vital resources. This pioneering study delves into the complexities of the Kabul Indus River basin, exploring potential opportunities for cooperation and threats of conflict by using the TWIN methodological framework. This study investigates the complexities surrounding the Kabul-Indus basin, employing a transboundary water interaction nexus framework, by analyzing documented reports of the events, official documents, media reports, newspaper articles, and student theses from 2000 to 2024. Recent trends in the Kabul Indus River Basin suggest increased potential for cooperation, particularly in areas of shared interest. By adapting UNECE 1992, 1997 International Water Conventions setting guidelines and principles, a potential path forward can be established for cooperative water management framework between the two countries. These conventions allow for multilateral, non-binding cooperation, even in the absence of a formal agreement. This study concludes that by exploring shared interests and leveraging these conventions, Pakistan and Afghanistan can move towards a more collaborative future in managing the Kabul-Indus River Basin. This collaboration is essential for ensuring the water security of both the nations.

Triple Nexus: leveraging development supply chains for humanitarian aid and peace in Southeast Asia – a GBV focus

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to emphasize the crucial role of supply chains in humanitarian and development interventions, specifically targeting gender-based violence in East Asia and the Pacific, regions prone to climate change-induced disasters. It explores optimizing development supply chains for humanitarian use, and the plausible impacts on community peacebuilding.Design/methodology/approachBy adopting an abductive approach to the action research methodology, based on 11 case studies, including intensive fieldwork in seven, this study evaluates development supply chains for their adaptability, institutionalization and flexibility to support humanitarian needs and analyzes the potential interlinkages of peacebuilding.FindingsThe research uncovers the irregular and unsystematized present humanitarian efforts and highlighting a lack of advancement in development channels for implementing effective humanitarian preparedness and response. By focusing on the Triple Nexus framework and based on the findings, the study rather proposes enhancing the humanitarian supply chain, suggesting a restructured mechanism for development channels that fosters synergies across the dimensions. It intricately connects peacebuilding applying a Triple Nexus Analytical Framework, examining the potential impact on micro-level peacebuilding outcomes.Research limitations/implicationsThe research recognizes the challenge in conceptualizing peacebuilding within the Triple Nexus framework, calling for a nuanced understanding of peacebuilding across different levels. Contrary to expectations, the case studies yielded unexpected results, suggesting a need for a reversed approach in the applied methodology, hence advancing humanitarian supply chains with synergies to development channels that in the specific cases studies lack efficiency in their current set-up.Originality/valueThis study examines the collaboration between humanitarian efforts and development initiatives and how they can collectively contribute to peacebuilding. It pushes forward the conversation on improving humanitarian preparedness by leveraging development supply chains and explores the effects of peacebuilding on local levels.

State-of-the-Art Drought Handling in Indonesia

Droughts tend to become more extreme, longer, and more frequent as an impact of climate change. Droughts now impact various development activities, especially those reliant on water resources, like agriculture for food security. Drought management issues in Indonesia stem from inadequate regulations and laws regarding drought response, due to intricate agency procedures and overlapping responsibilities. Nevertheless, there are currently established partial regulations and laws that govern the management of meteorological data and the accessibility of water resources. Without clear rules, policies, and frameworks, government policies on drought become less effective and overlapping. The research and novelty aim to design an integrated framework for handling drought by examining the present circumstances of relevant agencies using spatial nexus framework that is divided into three stages (construction, deconstruction, and reconstruction). During the first stage, the focus goes toward developing the construction framework will be proposed. The construction framework was conducted descriptively through a desk research method of drought management public policies, institutions, and operating systems for the agricultural sector in Indonesia. Moreover, a panel discussion was held to obtain the data and information about drought management by the government. Field observations were conducted to determine the handling of water resources practically for agriculture. Thus, drought management has been more concentrated on meteorological/climatological and hydrological elements. Moreover, it focuses on the statistical results of public and agricultural activities rather than on their socioeconomic consequences. A spatial approach will become the integration node of meteorological/hydrological elements, socioeconomic components, and agricultural activities.

Urban FEW Nexus Model for the Otun River Watershed

The food–energy–water (FEW) nexus has emerged as an alternative for managing resources in the food, energy, and water systems. However, there are limited case studies applying this approach in the Latin American and Caribbean region. This region stands to benefit significantly from the FEW nexus approach due to its heavy reliance on hydropower for electricity generation and unevenly distributed and poorly managed water resources. In this study, an urban FEW nexus framework was used in the Otun River Watershed (ORW) to evaluate changes in food, energy, and water demand for four scenarios. Additionally, regional climate models (RCMs) were used to forecast water availability in the ORW from 2030–2039. The results show that water demand could increase by 16% and energy demand will increase by roughly 15% for scenario 2, while water demand in scenario 3 will likely remain unchanged in relation to the current conditions (base scenario). Enhancing water resources management in the ORW will involve a variety of measures, including: implementing practices to reduce water losses in distribution systems, developing green infrastructure and decentralized wastewater systems, and embracing urban and peri-urban farming. Successful application of urban FEW nexus solutions requires involvement from stakeholders across the food, energy, and water systems.

Impact of green banking awareness on green FinTech adoption: a way towards profitable and sustainable practices

PurposeThe emergence of green banking (GB) as a pivotal force in fostering environmentally and socially responsible economic practices has gained significant traction in recent years. This paradigm shift within the banking sector advocates for the rise of Green financial technology (Fintech), serving as a catalyst for innovative digital tools promoting environmental, social and governance (ESG) investments and sustainable banking practices. This study aims to investigate the impact of green banking awareness (GBA) on green FinTech adoption (GFA) further affecting ESG investments, perceived profitability (PP) and sustainable banking (SB).Design/methodology/approachThe study employed a quantitative approach, utilizing partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to analyze data collected through an online administered questionnaire. The sample comprised registered users of various FinTech products and services in the North Indian regions, with 196 respondents.FindingsThe study identified a significant positive relationship between GBA and GFA, suggesting that heightened awareness of green banking positively influences the adoption of sustainable FinTech solutions. Additionally, GFA was found to be positively associated with increased ESG investments, perceived profitability and sustainability of personal investment portfolios. These findings underscore the potential of GFA to drive financial empowerment and environmental responsibility.Originality/valueThis research contributes to the concept and application of ESG-driven investments at the individual level. It provides a new discourse and proposes an Eco–Ed nexus framework focusing on strategic insights for stakeholders, guiding the implementation of transformative measures to advance sustainable finance and green economic growth.

Implementing the Resource Nexus approach: the contribution of internationalising German businesses

The Resource Nexus is an approach to sustainably manage environmental resources by considering the interlinkages, trade-offs and synergies between them. While a lot is known about this Resource Nexus framework and the impact this has on sustainable development and politics, far less is known about the technological, economic, and political situation required for the implementation of this approach. This paper considers the role of international business cooperation between German and Sub-Saharan African firms in facilitating this implementation. It explores the major barriers faced by German businesses looking to work in Sub-Saharan Africa and analyses the work of the German Außenhandelskammern (German Chambers of Commerce Abroad) as a replacement for the networks that are commonly seen as vital to business internationalisation. The findings have far-reaching implications for German and Sub-Saharan African politics, for business practices, and for the work of intermediary organisations looking to facilitate the internationalisation, as well as for those actors looking to implement a Resource Nexus approach across the world.

Assessing the impact of various irrigation technologies on agricultural production: A water-energy‑carbon nexus perspective

Assessing the impact of various irrigation technologies on agricultural production: A water-energy‑carbon nexus perspective

Coupling Relationships and Driving Mechanisms of Water–Energy–Food in China from the Perspective of Supply and Demand Security

The rapid increase in population and economy, coupled with accelerated urbanization, is placing immense pressure on the water–energy–food (WEF) system. In this context, the water–energy–food nexus framework has emerged, recognizing the interdependencies and interactions among water, energy, and food systems, with the aim of optimizing resource management through cross-sectoral collaboration to promote sustainable development. Understanding the spatio-temporal differentiation patterns of the WEF nexus and elucidating the driving mechanisms behind changes in their coupling relationships is essential. This knowledge is crucial for ensuring the security of each subsystem and enhancing the overall sustainability of interconnected systems through coordinated efforts. To address these challenges, this study first established evaluation indicators for water, energy, and food security to quantify their levels and spatio-temporal dynamics. Subsequently, the degrees of coupling coordination within the WEF nexus were calculated. Finally, the WEF nexus’s spatial correlations were analyzed by using a spatial autocorrelation model. Spatial econometric models then identified key factors affecting its coordination. The results revealed significant spatial heterogeneity in water, energy, and food security across mainland China’s provinces. From 2002 to 2022, water security improved substantially in 87% of the provinces, while energy security began to improve in the eastern regions following a phase of high consumption. Food security saw significant enhancements, particularly in Inner Mongolia and the northeastern provinces. The overall coupling coordination of the WEF nexus improved across 30 provinces, progressing toward primary coordination. However, Henan and Anhui provinces experienced fluctuations in WEF nexus coordination. Spatial correlation analysis showed upward trends and increased clustering in WEF nexus coordination. Factors such as economic development and population positively influenced coordination, while economic agglomeration, education, and effective irrigation area had negative effects. This study elucidates the complex interconnections and key influencing factors within the WEF nexus, providing a reference framework and practical recommendations for equitable resource management.

Towards common ground: Strategies for effective collaboration between the humanitarian and peacebuilding communities

Abstract In an era marked by growing conflicts, prolonged humanitarian needs and less donor funding, collaboration between the humanitarian and peacebuilding sectors is essential for more effective responses. This paper examines the complexities of fostering such collaboration, emphasizing the importance of integrated multisectoral approaches capable of addressing both immediate necessities and long-term peace and development objectives. While recent initiatives such as the humanitarian–development–peace nexus framework and the United Nations Secretary-General's Agenda for Humanity reflect progress toward integrated approaches, substantial collaborative challenges persist. This paper identifies three key entry points for mutual learning between humanitarian and peace actors. Firstly, it discusses a “peace-responsive” approach to humanitarian activities that proactively contributes to “peace-positive” outcomes. Secondly, it emphasizes the need for the peace sector to learn from humanitarian efforts regarding accountability to affected communities. Thirdly, it underscores the need to understand the normative foundations of each sector and their implications for joint action. Drawing on these insights, the paper offers recommendations for policy-makers and practitioners to help them advance joint approaches to humanitarian assistance and peacebuilding in conflict-affected contexts.

Exploring Sustainability in Resource Management: Implementation of a Water–Energy–Human Nexus Framework at a University Campus

Exploring Sustainability in Resource Management: Implementation of a Water–Energy–Human Nexus Framework at a University Campus