Water, energy and food are inextricably linked such that actions in one sector influence the others, often adversely, at different levels and scales. Sustainable development requires an understanding of complex and multidimensional interrelations, interdependences and interactions among different, but interlinked resources for improved efficiency and intergenerational equity based on socio-economic and environmental aspects. 


Sustainability indicators simplify and minimise this complexity by converting those relationships into simple formulations and indices. The water-energy-food (WEF) nexus is one such approach that explains and facilitates an understanding of the complex interlinkages, synergies and trade-offs among sectors.

What is it?

The Integrative WEF Nexus Analytical Model / Tool computes quantitative relationships among WEF nexus sustainability indicators through a multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) approach. This innovative tool displays computation outputs in form of tables and spider graphs for easy assessment of the interactions and interrelations among resources while enabling decision makers to set priorities and make best intervention decisions. The tool explains and facilitates cross-sectoral resource planning, utilisation, management and decision-making for sustainable development.

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