Water, Energy, Land, and Food (WELF) Nexus: An Ecosystems Perspective

Dear Colleagues,

The Water–Energy–Land–Food (WELF) Nexus highlights the complex interdependencies among these critical resources. Climate change, population growth, and urbanization are intensifying pressures on resource availability, necessitating integrated approaches for sustainable management. Traditionally, these resources have been managed in isolation, leading to inefficiencies and conflicts all over the world.

An ecosystem perspective enhances WELF Nexus analysis by incorporating ecological processes, biodiversity conservation, and natural resource flows. Ecosystem-based approaches help reveal trade-offs and synergies, informing strategies that balance human needs with environmental sustainability. This is particularly relevant in addressing issues such as land-use changes affecting water availability, energy production influencing food security, and climate change exacerbating resource scarcity.

The WELF Nexus is crucial for achieving multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 6 (Clean Water), SDG 7 (Clean Energy), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). By integrating ecosystem services into Nexus assessments, decision-makers can develop adaptive policies that enhance resilience and optimize resource use.

Understanding WELF interconnections across spatial and temporal scales supports sustainable land management, promotes renewable energy, ensures food security, and balances water allocation. This interdisciplinary approach is essential for addressing emerging environmental and socio-economic challenges in an era of rapid global change.

The goal of this Special Issue is to collect papers (original research articles and review papers) to give insights into the Water–Energy–Land–Food (WELF) Nexus from an ecosystem perspective.

This Special Issue will welcome manuscripts that link the following themes:

• Theoretical Frameworks: Integrating ecosystem services into WELF Nexus analysisl;
• Modeling Approaches: GIS-based tools and system dynamics modeling;
• Case Studies: Regional perspectives across urban and rural landscapes;
• Policy and Governance: Sustainable land-use planning and/or resource management;
• Technological Innovations: Renewable energy, precision agriculture, smart cities.

We look forward to receiving your original research articles and reviews.

Dr. Reginaldo Geremias
Dr. Naoki Masuhara
Guest Editors

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