ABSTRACT
The purpose of this special issue is to provide an introduction to the concept of the
water-energy-food nexus and the challenges faced by those wanting to use the idea in
global drylands. This introductory article will take a holistic, global perspective. Globally,
water resources are limited and effectiveness of use is determined by technology and
management. But water use trends cannot easily be altered as water demand is determined
by demography and consumption behaviour. Water consumption is likely to increase by
55% worldwide between 2000 and 2050. Some industries will increase their water use by
400% (manufacturing) and by 140% (electricity) (Organisation for Economic Cooperation
and Development [OECD], 2012). Using a nexus approach to steward water resources
sustainably in energy supply chains and food supply chains is seen as a promising
approach.
