21. Addressing the Food, Water, and Energy Nexus: Transatlantic Perspectives and Africa's Great Chance
- Author:
- Peter Engelke
- Publication Date:
- 12-2014
- Content Type:
- Working Paper
- Institution:
- Atlantic Council
- Abstract:
- This report explores how the relationships between food, water, and energy resources shape our world and its future, with emphasis on Africa and the transatlantic region. Called the food-water-energy “nexus,” the interdependencies between these resources are fundamental to all human endeavor on Earth. Understanding this nexus and managing it effectively is a critical challenge for policymakers and thought leaders in the transatlantic arena. Solving the challenges found on the African continent might present both the greatest task and the greatest reward. The potential pitfalls of failing to tackle Africa's foodwater- energy challenges are enormous, for Africans themselves and for all countries sharing the Atlantic Ocean space. But the potential downside is more than matched by the potential upside, and the gains to be had from solving nexus problems in Africa might prove as profound as any set of goals in the world.
- Topic:
- Development, Energy Policy, Water, and Food
- Political Geography:
- Africa, Middle East, and North Africa