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Advancing the resource nexus concept for research and practice

Author

Listed:
  • Floor Brouwer

    (United Nations University–Institute for Integrated Management of Material Fluxes and of Resources (UNU-FLORES))

  • Serena Caucci

    (United Nations University–Institute for Integrated Management of Material Fluxes and of Resources (UNU-FLORES))

  • Daniel Karthe

    (United Nations University–Institute for Integrated Management of Material Fluxes and of Resources (UNU-FLORES)
    Technische Universität Dresden
    Nalaikh District)

  • Sabrina Kirschke

    (United Nations University–Institute for Integrated Management of Material Fluxes and of Resources (UNU-FLORES)
    Museum für Naturkunde - Leibniz-Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity Science (MfN))

  • Kaveh Madani

    (United Nations University–Institute for Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH))

  • Andrea Mueller

    (United Nations University–Institute for Integrated Management of Material Fluxes and of Resources (UNU-FLORES))

  • Lulu Zhang

    (United Nations University–Institute for Integrated Management of Material Fluxes and of Resources (UNU-FLORES))

  • Edeltraud Guenther

    (United Nations University–Institute for Integrated Management of Material Fluxes and of Resources (UNU-FLORES))

Abstract

The nexus concept has considerably matured during the past decade. Numerous literature reviews have significantly contributed to taking stock of the advancements in knowledge and tool development to improve science-policy support on highly connected and interdependent resources. However, literature reviews often focus on specific sector-based nexus concepts (such as water-energy-food nexus) and analyses (such as environmental assessment, technical tools, or the management and policy dimension). Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the actual nexus and the resources it builds upon still needs to be improved. This paper aims to test the validity of the nexus construct for research and practice. Based on a systematic review of reviews, including 62 nexus-related review papers and subsequent consultation of some sixty nexus experts, we suggest a robust but flexible approach to advancing the Resource Nexus for research and practice. In doing so, the knowledge provided by nexus research may provide more substantial support to decision-makers when designing and implementing policies for the sustainable management of environmental resources.

Suggested Citation

  • Floor Brouwer & Serena Caucci & Daniel Karthe & Sabrina Kirschke & Kaveh Madani & Andrea Mueller & Lulu Zhang & Edeltraud Guenther, 2023. "Advancing the resource nexus concept for research and practice," Sustainability Nexus Forum, Springer, vol. 31(1), pages 41-65, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:sumafo:v:31:y:2023:i:1:d:10.1007_s00550-024-00533-1
    DOI: 10.1007/s00550-024-00533-1
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    References listed on IDEAS

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