426
T. Mabhaudhi et al.
The Climate Land-use Energy and Water Strategies (CLEWS) modeling framework integrates existing models and systems, such as Water Evaluation and Planning (WEAP), Long-range Energy Alternatives Planning System (LEAP), and Agroecological Zoning (AEZ), by simulating and comparing data among them in multiple
iterations to find a convergent solution (Keairns et al. 2016). It analyzes interlinkages among resource sectors to determine the effect that one sector might have on
the others, and identifies counterintuitive findings in these integrated systems. It is a
free online tool that creates scenarios based on (UN DESA 2013):
• Global estimates of CO 2 emissions, water use, and investment in energy and
material production.
• Estimates of CO 2 emissions and water use by energy source.
• Estimates of mix of energy supply.
This model has been applied to a case study in Mauritius, focusing on two policy
goals: renewable energy production and renewable fuel standards that mandate the
blending of ethanol into gasoline. Similarly, case studies for Kenya and Bolivia
investigated SDG 7 (energy access to all). This model may be adaptable to South
Africa ; however, it is mainly limited to the energy sector.
Simpson and Berchner (2017) propose to develop a composite indicator to report
on the WEF nexus. Their study highlights that indices should be based on quantitative
data and represented by a single numeric value, for consistency among evaluations
of different cities and countries. Mitigation scenarios could be tested to ensure the
establishment of achievable and measurable goals to improve the WEF nexus index
over time.
For all these and any tools, models, and indices, data storage and accessibility
will play a significant role in understanding and analyzing the WEF nexus. It is also
important to consider temporal and spatial scale differences of different elements,
suggesting the need to integrate multiple available models and tools, as well as input
from stakeholders and policymakers. Table 3, adapted from Martinez-Hernandez
et al. (2017), summarizes key models and indices that may be used for evaluation.
4 Conclusions
A WEF nexus framework for South Africa is urgently required so that it can
be applied as a tool for resource management to optimize benefits and minimize
conflicts. Water, land, and energy resources in South Africa are highly emotional
issues and therefore must be approached and managed judiciously; the WEF nexus
offers such an opportunity. An understanding of the WEF nexus in South Africa is
of great value when developing a framework that is specific for the country.
The WEF nexus framework was developed with emphasis on Sustainable Development Goals 2 (zero hunger), 6 (clean water and sanitation), and 7 (affordable and
clean energy). Its framework considers the importance of livelihoods and human
well-being and eminent threats to sustainable development, especially in South
T. Mabhaudhi et al.
The Climate Land-use Energy and Water Strategies (CLEWS) modeling framework integrates existing models and systems, such as Water Evaluation and Planning (WEAP), Long-range Energy Alternatives Planning System (LEAP), and Agroecological Zoning (AEZ), by simulating and comparing data among them in multiple
iterations to find a convergent solution (Keairns et al. 2016). It analyzes interlinkages among resource sectors to determine the effect that one sector might have on
the others, and identifies counterintuitive findings in these integrated systems. It is a
free online tool that creates scenarios based on (UN DESA 2013):
• Global estimates of CO 2 emissions, water use, and investment in energy and
material production.
• Estimates of CO 2 emissions and water use by energy source.
• Estimates of mix of energy supply.
This model has been applied to a case study in Mauritius, focusing on two policy
goals: renewable energy production and renewable fuel standards that mandate the
blending of ethanol into gasoline. Similarly, case studies for Kenya and Bolivia
investigated SDG 7 (energy access to all). This model may be adaptable to South
Africa ; however, it is mainly limited to the energy sector.
Simpson and Berchner (2017) propose to develop a composite indicator to report
on the WEF nexus. Their study highlights that indices should be based on quantitative
data and represented by a single numeric value, for consistency among evaluations
of different cities and countries. Mitigation scenarios could be tested to ensure the
establishment of achievable and measurable goals to improve the WEF nexus index
over time.
For all these and any tools, models, and indices, data storage and accessibility
will play a significant role in understanding and analyzing the WEF nexus. It is also
important to consider temporal and spatial scale differences of different elements,
suggesting the need to integrate multiple available models and tools, as well as input
from stakeholders and policymakers. Table 3, adapted from Martinez-Hernandez
et al. (2017), summarizes key models and indices that may be used for evaluation.
4 Conclusions
A WEF nexus framework for South Africa is urgently required so that it can
be applied as a tool for resource management to optimize benefits and minimize
conflicts. Water, land, and energy resources in South Africa are highly emotional
issues and therefore must be approached and managed judiciously; the WEF nexus
offers such an opportunity. An understanding of the WEF nexus in South Africa is
of great value when developing a framework that is specific for the country.
The WEF nexus framework was developed with emphasis on Sustainable Development Goals 2 (zero hunger), 6 (clean water and sanitation), and 7 (affordable and
clean energy). Its framework considers the importance of livelihoods and human
well-being and eminent threats to sustainable development, especially in South