The challenge 

Global mapping on water, energy and food access can hide regional variations and impede development.  

The solution 

Create a tool to accurately map natural resources fragility to address the loss of human capacity. 

The impact 

Evidence-based decision-making and policies that enhance agricultural productivity, improve food security and progress towards relevant SDGs.  

 

The poorest nations could be disproportionately burdened due to inadequate mapping of natural resources. In response to this issue, the Centre for Environmental Policy at Imperial College London is working with the UN Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) to develop a tool to map resources. 

From climate hazards to manmade disasters and depletion of resources, the world faces a growing number of challenges that are turning countries and communities into fragile states. Poor people in low- or middle-income countries (LMIC) are particularly dependant on natural resources for their livelihoods but often live in ecologically vulnerable areas with low resource productivity. This contributes to poverty and puts sustainable development at risk, while reducing vulnerable communities’ capacity to deal with global pressures on their water, energy and food security.  

A global project with sustainable goals 

This ambitious global mapping project has been put together under the FAO Building Forward Better initiative. Stemming from the pressing need to invest in human capital in fragile contexts, and improve the management of natural resources, the initiative aims to develop a tool that will accurately map global natural resources fragility. The Imperial team is led by Nick Voulvoulis Professor of Environmental Policy, who said: “To support development efforts, we need to depict clear investment opportunities based on scientifically elaborated needs fostering healthier human-nature relationships.”

Data-driven change for development 

The tool being developed by the team will integrate water, energy and food systems information to measure resource fragility and visualise vulnerable areas. The data will provide vital evidence that can guide policy and decision-making. Ultimately, the tool could be used to support developing countries through green and responsible investments, fostering sustainable development, strengthening national institutions and addressing Sustainable Development Goals.