Potential of Earth Observations for Identifying WEF Nexus Opportunities in the Basin for the Red River of the North

Abstract:

The Water-Energy-Food (WEF) Nexus provides a basis for understanding and managing the interactions among the food, energy and water sectors and their associated impacts on the environment and the economy. In order to explore the opportunities and limitations for the potential application of Earth Observations in addressing the Nexus within a specific basin, a review of the Nexus interactions has been undertaken for the international Red River of the North Basin. Based on this review a template is proposed to help assess the degree to which the WEF Nexus has been adopted, and to identify the potential role that Earth Observations could play by providing information to support the efficient management of the Nexus. In particular, these data can contribute to defining and achieving long-term and annual plans, and can support short-term operational decision making. The study also explores the benefits to producers, consumers and governments related to WEF Nexus implementation. The presentation concludes by identifying actions that could be undertaken to increase the use of Earth Observations in integrated planning for the WEF Nexus in this Basin.