The water-energy-environment-economy nexus progressing toward net zero

Abstract

This short communication discussed the water-energy-environment-economy nexus, and the challenges and opportunities progressing towards net zero. A circular water economy is an approach to water management that seeks to maximize the use and reuse of water resources, reduce waste and pollution, and promote sustainable and equitable access to water for all, where desalination may play an important role. The transition towards net zero, moving from an energy system based on fossil fuels not sustainable anymore to a renewable energy system, may impact the cost and availability of energy. Desalination definitively needs cheap and abundant energy, and investments which also depend on the accessibility of inexpensive and plentiful energy. Expensive and scarce energy may impact negatively on desalination, and contribute to water scarcity.