Exploring the Water-Food Nexus: Addressing Water Scarcity, Water and Food-Secure Cities, and Sustainable Agriculture

The relationship between water and food, known as the water-food nexus, is a crucial aspect of our global food system. 

As the world’s population continues to grow, the demand for food production is increasing, putting significant pressure on water resources. This pressure is further exacerbated by the effects of climate change, leading to water scarcity in many regions of the world. 

This newsletter will explore three critical topics related to the water-food nexus: water scarcity, water and food-secure cities, and sustainable agriculture. We will discuss the challenges presented by these topics and explore potential solutions that can help to create a more sustainable and resilient food system. Addressing these issues ensures that future generations can access safe and nutritious food while protecting our planet’s natural resources.

Insights

Water Scarcity

Water scarcity is a critical issue that affects food production in many parts of the world. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), agriculture accounts for 70% of global water use. The increasing demand for food due to population growth and changing dietary habits, combined with the effects of climate change, means that water scarcity is becoming more acute in many regions.

To address this challenge, there is a need for more sustainable water management practices. These can include using efficient irrigation systems, rainwater harvesting, water recycling, and adopting crops that require less water. Governments, farmers, and other stakeholders must work together to ensure that water is used efficiently in agriculture and that water resources are managed sustainably. Read how Australia’s Queensland Urban Utilities provides fit-for-purpose recycled water for agricultural users.

Water and Food-Secure Cities

Urban agriculture has enormous potential to produce between 100-180 million tons of food annually while providing various ecosystem services. Additionally, it could contribute to avoided stormwater runoff, energy savings, and nitrogen sequestration. With a global high urban agricultural intensity scenario, urban agriculture could generate economic benefits worth up to $160 billion annually.

To fully utilise the potential of urban agriculture, cities across the world have implemented various tools to increase agricultural yield while conserving water resources. By maximising the potential of urban agriculture, cities can create more sustainable and resilient food systems, reduce the environmental impact of food production, and provide multiple benefits to society. Read how San Francisco and Vancouver are leading-by-example in creating water and resource-efficient urban agricultural systems.

Sustainable Agriculture

Sustainable agriculture is an approach to food production that aims to minimise environmental impact while ensuring farming systems’ long-term viability. This can include measures such as using organic farming practices, crop diversification, and integrated pest management. Sustainable agriculture practices can help reduce food production’s impact on water resources and protect the health of ecosystems.

To promote sustainable agriculture, governments can provide incentives for farmers to adopt sustainable practices, such as tax breaks or subsidies. Consumers can also play a role by supporting local and sustainable food systems and making informed choices about the food they eat. Read how Thames Water’s Smarter Water Catchments initiative in the Evenlode encourages water-sensitive farming and reduces the loss of phosphorus from farms to waterways.

Latest Mark and Focus

Read the latest issue of Mark and Focus on the circular water economy on Issuu or Apple Books or download it here.

This issue of Mark and Focus explores concepts related to the circular water economy, including innovative technologies for water treatment, circular water economy in agriculture, and mitigating the impact of climate change on water resources. By promoting the circular water economy, we can ensure the sustainable management of water resources and support the achievement of sustainable development goals.

Additional Insights

• Water Neutral Buildings: Achieving Zero Water Footprint through Innovative Design and Technology
• The Circular Economy in Fashion: Reducing Water Consumption and Improving Sustainability
• Exploring the Differences between Nature-Based Stormwater Management Approaches: A Comparison of BGI, GI, WSUD, SUDS, LID, ABC Waters, and Sponge Cities
• Tackling the Water Crisis: San Diego’s ‘Waste No Water’ Smartphone App Leads the Way in Conservation
• Circular Water Economy: Innovative Approaches to Water Resource Recovery and Resiliency

Read more about the latest Mark and Focus articles on the risks and opportunities mega-trends provide to business, governance, and society here.

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