Researchers Learn to Play Nexus Games to Understand Water-Energy-Food Challenges

Nexus Game Training “Challenges of Water Management for Energy and Food” was arranged for the participants. Dr. Piotr Magnuszewski from the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) was the trainer.

This game was a unique opportunity to get an insight into challenges of water management for energy and food production, at the same time sustaining environmental flows. The aim of the game was to provide an opportunity for practising how different water management policies can lead to sustainable development of society in harmony with Nature. It can be used both as a training tool and policy exercise. Participants strived to address the water needs of population, industry and agriculture, at the same time facing challenges of climate change.

The game is designed to demonstrate many interconnected Water-Food-Energy Nexus challenges. The players take on the roles of policymakers in two countries that have access to the same river. They have to match the increasing water demand with adequate supply. In order to achieve this goal, effective collaboration and information exchange must be established between stakeholders both within and across the borders. Since the goals of both countries overlap, the game provides an opportunity for practising conflict resolution and cooperation at the international level.