Navigating the Water-Energy-Food Nexus: Embracing clean energy solutions and multi-stakeholder partnership

Yogyakarta, 5 – 7 November 2023 -- Amidst the growing urgency to address sustainable development goals (SDGs), the recent SDGs Annual Conference (SAC) 2023 held in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, emerged as a beacon of hope, bringing together key stakeholders to chart a path towards a more sustainable and resilient future. With the theme "Water, Energy, and Agriculture Towards Sustainable Food Security," the conference delved into the intricate interplay of these critical sectors, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.? ? At the heart of the discussions was the recognition that food security hinges on the availability of water and energy resources. Without a robust water management system, agricultural productivity suffers, leading to food shortages. Similarly, energy, a fundamental input for food production and distribution, is facing the pressing need for transition towards cleaner sources.? The conference underscored the importance of the Water-Energy-Food Nexus, a concept that emphasizes the interconnectedness of these sectors. Actions undertaken in one sector can have significant ripple effects on others. For instance, unsustainable water usage for agriculture can strain energy resources, while renewable energy integration can reduce carbon emissions, fostering environmental sustainability.?

Minister, Suharso Monoarfa, of Bappenas, addressing to the youth audience on day one, that demographic bonus as a golden opportunity for Indonesia with youth as central actors in achieving SDGs targets parallel to the Indonesia Emas 2045. Monoarfa continued, that the demographic bonus will only occur one time making it as a reminder to continuously drive and propel the young generation as agents of change.????

Within the same segments, CASE Indonesia invited Afutami, the Founder of Think Policy, also highlighted the pivotal role of youth in finding solutions toward complex challenges, including environmental problems. One of the ways is through shifting business value chain process into a circular economy, which reflects a redistributive and regenerative economic model.? Changing the system and equipped with environmentally conscious mindset will drive the change within business process from linear to circular economy.??

Yudiandra Yuwono, Energy Advisor from Project Clean, Affordable, and Secure (CASE) Energy for Southeast Asia, emphasized the need for a paradigm shift in energy consumption. Transitioning from the current mindset of limitless energy availability to a more mindful approach, centered on energy efficiency, storage, and renewable energy utilization, is crucial for ensuring sustainable food production.? ? The conference also witnessed the active participation of regional governments, academicians, private sectors, and local NGOs, demonstrating the importance of multi-stakeholder partnerships in achieving SDGs.

Each stakeholder plays a vital role in ensuring food security, from regional governments implementing effective water and energy policies to local businesses and farmers adopting sustainable practices.? ? The German-Indonesia Cooperation, through its Energy Programme and SDGs SSTC (South-South Triangular Cooperation), showcased their commitment to sustainable development through an engaging exhibition booth. The booth not only attracted participants with quizzes and merchandise giveaways but also served as a platform for knowledge exchange and discussion on SDGs, energy transition, and environmental concerns.?

The SDGs Annual Conference 2023 served as a powerful reminder that achieving food security is not merely about increasing agricultural output; it is about navigating the complex Water-Energy-Food Nexus, embracing clean energy solutions, and fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration. By recognizing the interconnectedness of these sectors and adopting a holistic approach, we can pave the way towards a more sustainable and food-secure future for all.?