Managing Resilient Nexus Systems Through Participatory Systems Dynamics Modelling

Awareness of the dynamic interdependencies between the Water, Energy and Food sectors has grown in recent years, along with the realisation that purely sectoral viewpoints cannot lead to sustainable solutions. Growing demand for resources create trade-offs, which are complicated by the impact of climate change. The Water-Energy-Food Nexus approach is a powerful concept for addressing the interrelationships of resource systems and moving towards better coordination and utilisation of natural resources, taking into account existing trade-offs and moving towards synergies. However, progress in terms of incorporating Nexus thinking in practical policymaking has been slow.

The Rexus Project aims to close the gap between science and policy, moving from Nexus thinking to Nexus doing. It brings together the scientific tools and the integrated vision necessary to analyze real-world conditions, including frictions and climate risks. By employing Systems Dynamic Modelling, it is designing sustainable and actionable forward-looking solutions that increase resilience across sectors. These solutions, clearly visualised, will form the basis of forward-looking and participatory decision making.