Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 20, 2025

Watershed Planning within a Quantitative Scenario Analysis Framework
Published on: July 24, 2016
An integrative analytical model for the water-energy-food nexus: South Africa case study
Luxon Nhamo1,2, Tafadzwanashe Mabhaudhi2, Sylvester Mpandeli1,3
1Water Research Commission, Lynnwood Manor, Pretoria 0081, South Africa.
Abstract:
The missing link between cross-sectoral resource management and full-scale adoption of the water-energy-food (WEF) nexus has been the lack of analytical tools that provide evidence for policy and decision-making. This study defined WEF nexus sustainability indicators, from where an analytical model was developed to manage WEF resources in an integrated manner using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). The model established quantitative relationships among WEF sectors, simplifying the intricate interlinkages among resources, using South Africa as a case study. A spider graph was used to illustrate sector performance as related to others, whose management is viewed either as sustainable or unsustainable. The model was then applied to assess progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals in South Africa. The estimated integrated indices of 0.155 and 0.203 for 2015 and 2018, respectively, classify South Africa's management of resources as marginally sustainable. The model is a decision support tool that highlights priority areas for intervention.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Sustainable Development
What is Climate?
Design Example: Analyzing Capacity Contours for Flood Risk Assessment
Adaptations that Reduce Water Loss
Water and Mineral Acquisition
Responses to Drought and Flooding

