The world is facing an unprecedented challenge: How to sustainably feed and supply energy to 9.6 billion people by 2050 without harming the water and environmental systems on which we depend.

Food

On current trends, feeding an extra 2.4 billion people will require 60% more food production.

Energy

The International Energy Agency projects that global energy demand will increase by 40%.

Environment

The OECD projects that biodiversity will decrease by a further 10% over the next four decades.

Water

The UN estimates that world freshwater demand will increase by 50% by 2050.

As the world charts a more sustainable future, the crucial interplay among water, food and energy is one of the most formidable challenges we face.

− Ban-Ki Moon, Former UN Secretary-General

UNSUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT

OF ONE DOMAIN AFFECTS THE SUSTAINABILITY OF OTHER SYSTEMS AND LIVELIHOODS.

BETTER DECISIONS

CAN BE MADE BY WORKING ACROSS SYSTEMS. BETTER GOVERNANCE IN ONE DOMAIN CAN GENERATE BETTER OUTCOMES FOR ALL.

What we do

We provide decision-makers at all levels with the knowledge and frameworks to effectively manage the trade-offs between:

Food

Food and agriculture comprise 70% of human water demand.

Energy

Energy prices and biofuel production are primary determinants of food prices.

Environment

Environmental systems underpin the security of food, energy and water resources.

Water

Water scarcity and poor water quality constrain hydropower and thermal energy generation.

Image by NASA

1. UNDERSTAND RISKS

UNDERSTAND RISKS to the security of food, energy, environment and water resources. Linkages across these systems require an integrated approach to evaluating vulnerabilities and their management.

Image by NASA
Image by Tom Check on flickr.

2. ENGAGE DECISION-MAKERS

ENGAGE DECISION-MAKERS on developing, adapting, and implementing decision frameworks that consider food, energy, environment and water as integrated systems.

Image by Tom Check on flickr.
Power stations

3. ENABLE ACTION

ENABLE ACTION by decision-makers, be it a farmer or a water minister, that results in improved long-term outcomes for people and the natural resources they depend on.

We are a group of leading experts from universities, multilateral organisations and non-government organisations committed to addressing the world's food, energy, environment and water challenges.

We have come together because we understand the political and human consequences of inaction – the time to act is now.

Who we are

The FE2W Network is a non-profit association with 40 members who volunteer their expertise and time.