The current climate challenge and the sustainable development related issues require a holistic approach that considers the intricate connections between the various essential elements for both humanity and the environment. The Water, Energy, Food, and Ecosystem (WEFE) Nexus is crucial for understanding these interconnections and for developing effective responses to the climate crisis.
Water, essential for human life, agriculture, industry, energy production, and ecosystem, is threatened by climate change, population growth, and economic development. Simultaneously, energy, must transition towards renewable and clean sources to mitigate its environmental impact. This transition requires substantial investments and robust international governance. Food security, which is inherently linked to a water availability, energy, and the resilience of food systems amidst climate variations, requires sustainable agricultural practices, efficient natural resources management, and international cooperation fostering the transfer of knowledge and technology. Climate change exacerbates these challenges by increasing pressure on ecosystems, amplifying extreme weather events, and disrupting agricultural production cycles and natural resources.
COP 28 is a key platform for addressing these issues through the lens of the WEFE Nexus, requiring the establishment of partnerships and strategic synergies as well as the mobilization of international funds for climate change adaptation.
Recognizing the growing vulnerability of its water resources to climate change, Morocco is committed to promoting innovative strategies for water security in order to ensure food sovereignty and foster economic prosperity. Morocco acknowledges the significance of embracing an integrated approach to address the interdependencies between water, energy, food, and ecosystems, while emphasizing the importance of managing water use conflicts appropriately, especially in a context of water scarcity.
This side-event aims to facilitate the debate among national and international institutions on how the WEFE Nexus framework could enhance adaptation to climate change in the relevant sectors and ensure the economic and social development, while preserving the environment and promoting a resilient and sustainable development. The objective of this event is to highlight critical issues and promote international dialogue that translates into concrete actions and financial commitments, with the aim of forging a sustainable and prosperous future for the global community.
