WEFE Nexus Conference 2025 Advances Cross-Sector Solutions for Sustainable Development
Rabat, Morocco – February 11-12, 2025 — The WEFE Nexus International Conference, themed “Exploring and Bridging Nexus for a Sustainable Future,” successfully concluded on February 12, 2025, at the Institut Agronomique et Vétérinaire Hassan II in Rabat, Morocco. Jointly organized by the PRIMA-funded BONEX and SureNexus projects, the two-day event convened a diverse assembly of researchers, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and practitioners from around the globe to address the pressing challenges and opportunities within the Water-Energy-Food-Environment (WEFE) Nexus.
The conference was structured around three key pillars:
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WEFE Nexus in Governance
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Gender and WEFE Nexus
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WEFE Nexus Solutions
Day 1 Highlights:
The conference commenced with an opening session, followed by a presentation from Mr. Ali Rhouma of PRIMA, who introduced a video on the broader systemic, social, and policy dimensions essential for successful WEFE Nexus project implementation.
Dr. Rafael Casielles (BONEX) and Dr. Jordi Morató (SureNexus) presented their respective projects, emphasizing the translation of conceptual Nexus knowledge into practical, evidence-based solutions. Dr. Morató highlighted the use of innovative Artificial Intelligence tools to optimize technology selection, supporting climate change adaptation and sustainable development.
Mr. Mohamed Benhassi (CERES) delivered a keynote address on WEFE Nexus Governance, providing insights into challenges, best practices, and strategies for integrating governance frameworks to enhance cross-sectoral collaboration and policy coherence.
A governance roundtable followed, featuring experts such as Mrs. Roula Khadra (CIHEAM Bari) and Mr. Michael Jacobson (Sustainfood), who discussed institutional barriers, policy gaps, and innovative governance models.
The day concluded with presentations of selected abstracts, including Francesco Fatone’s (UNIVPM) talk on enhancing WEFE Nexus policy implementation through case studies in the Mediterranean region.
Day 2 Highlights:
Dr. Bassel Daher opened the second day with a keynote on multicountry experiences with trade-off analysis within the WEFE Nexus, emphasizing practical approaches to balancing resource priorities.
Dr. Jordi Morató presented on Nature-Based Solutions and ancestral hydrotechnologies, illustrating how traditional practices can address modern challenges in water and food security and climate change adaptation.
Case studies from the BONEX and SureNexus projects were showcased, including an innovative desalination system inspired by mangrove ecosystems developed by PLANET, and sustainable living models like the Tinos Ecolodge.
The conference concluded with a panel discussion featuring project coordinators and members of the IAV organizing team, summarizing key insights and recommendations for advancing the WEFE Nexus approach.
Key Takeaways:
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Integrated Approaches: Emphasis on breaking sectoral silos through cross-sector collaboration and capacity-building programs.
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Stakeholder Engagement: Recognition that technological solutions must be complemented by stakeholder involvement and mindset shifts.
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Data and Indicators: Call for the development of common indicators and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to standardize assessments and facilitate data-driven decisions.
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Circular Bioeconomy: Promotion of wastewater reuse, nutrient recovery, and recognition of waste streams as valuable resources.
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Gender Equity: Integration of gender considerations to ensure inclusive and effective WEFE Nexus solutions.
The conference underscored the urgency of integrating sustainability principles into digital transformation, governance, and technological advancements. By embracing cross-sector integration, inclusive governance, and cutting-edge solutions, the PRIMA projects (SureNexus and BONEX) and their partners are well-positioned to contribute to a resilient and sustainable future.
For more information, visit the official conference page: WEFE Nexus International Conference
for more information about the project visit official page: https://surenexus.eu/
