Optimising WEFE Nexus in the Mediterranean basin

The document focuses on optimizing the Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystems (WEFE) Nexus in the Mediterranean basin, recognizing the interconnectedness of these components and the need for joint planning, international cooperation, and transparent decision-making to achieve sustainable development goals. The WEFE Nexus approach is particularly relevant in the Mediterranean region due to socioeconomic considerations, climate variability, population growth, and developmental pressures.

The document addresses various challenges, including over-tourism, water pricing's impact on local agriculture, energy production's effects on ecosystems, and provides policy recommendations to tackle these issues. It underscores the significance of collaborative efforts and adopting a Nexus approach to effectively manage resources and promote sustainable development in the Mediterranean.

To enhance coordination, efficiency, and sustainability across the WEFE Nexus in the Mediterranean, the document proposes several recommendations:

1. Implement tourism development policies that address over-tourism, biodiversity decline, and zoning regulations.
2. Focus on the Water Node of the Nexus by improving water distribution systems, addressing water contamination and wastewater management, and promoting stakeholder collaboration.
3. Ensure policy coherence by considering the WEFE Nexus interlinkages in sectoral policies and promoting capacity building activities to work towards meeting UN Sustainable Development Goals.
4. Mitigate energy consumption and urban pressures by adopting nature-based solutions in urban planning, designing energy-efficient buildings and infrastructures (e.g., green roofs), and embracing renewable energy technologies to boost agricultural production and preserve ecosystems.

The document represents a collaborative effort among six projects: SIGMA Nexus, AWESOME, NEXUS-NESS, NEXOGENESIS, GoNEXUS, and REXUS.