The nexus concept
Research & Innovation

The nexus concept

The nexus concept specifically referencing interlinked natural resource use originated in 1983 with the Food-Energy Nexus program of the United Nations University, which sought to better understand food and energy challenges in developing countries. In recent years, the concept generated traction in response to the 2008 global economic crisis and has increasingly been promoted as a global development paradigm and research agenda.

However, while the water-energy-food nexus is all around us, it is rarely seen, considered or understood by the public or indeed by some policymakers. In most cases, this is because of the sheer complexity of the nexus, but also due to the fact that the connections are often indirect and at scales of influence beyond the immediate “sight” of consumers and decision-makers.

[Full article by Enda Hayes - Photo by World Fish - Flickr]

The nexus concept

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The Euro-Mediterranean AGORA is a way to engage the civil society in the institutional and policy dialogue on research and innovation with the aim of becoming an integral part of the decision making and governance processes.

The Agora is an important component of the broader MEDSPRING project, supported by the European Union with the aim of strengthening the Euro-Mediterranean dialogue and cooperation on research and innovation.