Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network

Video credit: Pictures with life/Pixabay

Welcome to the new knowledge platform of the Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network.

In September 2015, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development with 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which jointly constitute a comprehensive plan of action to eradicate poverty and ensure sustainable development. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development recognizes the central role that improved access to both water and energy play in advancing sustainable development. Powering progress on SDG 6 on water and SDG 7 on energy will also have an effect on a range of other Sustainable Development Goals, such as those on health, food, poverty eradication, gender equality, economic productivity, and climate change. The importance of energy and water and their strong interdependence have become more evident during the COVID-19 world crisis of 2020. Without the critical services of water and energy, the full spectrum of health services could not be implemented.

 

Recognizing the need to address the interlinkages between water and energy and their contributions to the advancement of other SDGs, the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) and ITAIPU Binacional (hydroelectric power plant owned by Brazil and Paraguay) joined efforts in 2018 in a partnership entitled “Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions” to promote water and energy sustainability and other SDGs. The initiative resulted in the creation of the global Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network on SDG 6 and SDG 7 interlinkages, with a large number of multi-stakeholders from all regions and constituencies. The aim is to bring together all stakeholders to promote an integrated approach to SDG 6 and SDG 7 in support of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

 

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FEATURED NEWS & EVENTS

 

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On 12-14 June 2024, UN DESA, in cooperation with the Global Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network, will convene the Second Global Symposium on Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions: Towards a Green Economy. The event will be hosted by Canal de Isabel II in Madrid, Spain. The symposium aims to enhance the capacities of relevant stakeholders to effectively manage the water-energy nexus and interlinkages with other SDGs covering the social, economic and environmental dimensions of sustainable development and promoting the transition towards green economies. The event will serve as a global platform to disseminate knowledge, exchange experiences and showcase best practices on integrated approaches supporting sustainable water and energy solutions. Additionally, it will provide an opportunity for dialogue on effective policy, technical and managerial approaches to water and energy supporting sustainable development.

Save the Date
Concept Note


 

 

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2024 Meeting of the Members of the Global Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network

The 2024 meeting of the members of the Global Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network was held virtually on 21 February 2024. The meeting was convened by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA). The objective of the meeting was to discuss the 2023 accomplishments, the 2024 – 2027 tentative work plan, members’ recommendations and support and major 2024 events. The event included 25 participants representing 20 member organizations. Member representatives indicated their future contributions and recommendations for the Network and next steps moving forward.

Download the Summary
Download the Presentation


 

 

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2023 ANNUAL REPORT OF THE GLOBAL SUSTAINABLE WATER AND ENERGY SOLUTIONS NETWORK

The 2023 Annual report of the Global Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network details the milestones and key activities from the year, including capacity-building events and advocacy and outreach world meetings in which members had the opportunity to share best practices and innovative approaches surrounding their water-energy nexus activities. It also highlights plans for 2024.

The Network expanded its membership to 30 institutions, as well as grew its body of resources on the Knowledge Management Platform with new reports and case studies. In 2023 The Natural Resource Forum: A United Nations Sustainable Development Journal published a Special Issue on Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions, featuring several articles from Network Members.

Download the Report


 

 

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Interviews with Authors of Organisations with Scholarly Articles Selected for Publication in the Natural Resource Forum: A United Nations Sustainable Development Journal

On the occasion of the launch of the Special Issue on “Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions” published by the Natural Resources Forum, a UN Sustainable Development Journal, interviews were conducted at the SDG Pavilion with representatives of organizations whose scholarly articles were selected for publication. Representatives of Canal de Isabel II, ASAZGUA, and ME SOLshare provided details about water-energy nexus issues addressed in their papers. This is the first time this journal has dedicated a Special Issue to this critical subject. These organizations are members of the Global Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network, and their papers are among only ten selected worldwide for publication.

Summary of Interviews

Interview with Mr. Fernado Arlandis

Interview with Mr. Luis Miguel Paiz

Interview with Sebastian Groh


 

 

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Special Issue on Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions by Natural Resources Forum (NRF) - a United Nations Sustainable Development Journal, November 2023

In November 2023 the Natural Resources Forum (NRF), a United Nations Sustainable Development Journal, published for the first time a Special Issue on Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions.

This Special Issue includes contributions to the global debate on the water–energy nexus, examples of the nexus approach in practice in different parts of the world, analysis of diverse issues related to integrated approaches to water and energy solutions, and their interlinkages with the SDGs. This edition aims to promote an understanding of the relationship between technology and policy and enhance global awareness of ongoing integrated efforts on water–energy.

An integrated approach to resolving water and energy challenges allows the realization of important synergies, avoiding negative tradeoffs that result when they are managed independently. In relation, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development recognizes the vital role that improved access to both water and energy plays in advancing progress in other critical areas, such as the Global Goals on health, food, poverty eradication, economic productivity, terrestrial ecosystems, and climate change.

The Special Issue includes a selection of scholarly articles authored by members of the Global Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network. It is available on the Wiley Online Library here and the PDF table of contents here.


 

 

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Advancing Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation through Integrated Innovative Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions, 4 December | COP28 | Dubai, UAE

On 4 December 2023, UN DESA and the Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network (SWESN) jointly held a side event at the 2023 UN Conference on Climate Change (COP28) in Dubai on “Advancing Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation through Integrated Innovative Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions.” COP28 offered a unique platform to exchange and disseminate knowledge and experiences related to integrated innovative sustainable water and energy solutions designed to ensure the efficient use of water and energy resources and support climate change mitigation and adaptation. Participants had the opportunity to discuss the potential benefits and positive impacts of integrated innovative water-energy systems and programmes on terrestrial and water ecosystems.

Concept Note
Agenda
Summary


 

 

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Workshop on Synergistic Implementation of Sustainable Consumption and Production of Water and Energy and Climate Action Towards Achievement of Agenda 2030 and the Paris Agreement, Early 2024 (Exact date forthcoming)

In early 2024 UN DESA will convene a global capacity development workshop in cooperation with the Network and hosted by its member ASAZGUA in Antigua, Guatemala. This event will bring together multi-stakeholders to discuss and showcase existing initiatives and disseminate information on integrated sustainable consumption and production of water and energy actions supporting climate change objectives and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The workshop also will offer an opportunity for dialogue on effective policy, technical and managerial approaches to water, energy and climate change supporting sustainable development. It is a Preparatory Workshop for the Second Global Symposium on Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions. The event will include expert panelists from countries covering major world regions and representatives from Member States and from the public, private, and non-profit organizations.

Concept Note


 

 

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Side Event 2023 HLPF - Integrated Water and Energy Solutions Supporting Sustainable Cities and Human Settlements 14 July | New York

On 14 July UN DESA conducted a side event at the 2023 High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF) in cooperation with the Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network with about 70 participants to provide an opportunity for the exchange and dissemination of knowledge and experiences on integrated water and energy solutions supporting cities and human settlements.

Panelists explored the interdependencies between water and energy systems, delved into the challenges faced by urban environments and explored innovative approaches to address these issues. Speakers discussed innovative approaches to ensuring access to sustainable, affordable, reliable and modern energy, water and sanitation services which are necessary conditions for the sustainability of cities and human settlements and to ensuring long-term habitable communities for the future.

Event Summary
Watch Video
Final Agenda
Concept Note
Panelist Presentations:
Javier Fernández, Canal de Isabel II, Spain
Andrea Bolaños, ASAZGUA, Guatemala
Gonzalo Sáenz de Miera, Iberdrola, Spain
Edgar Herrera, LAICA, UNALA, Costa Rica
Doris Edem Agbevivi, Energy Commission, Ghana
Hal Turton, IAEA


 

 

water energy

Side Event - Water and Energy for Sustainable Development: Integrated Solutions supporting Regional Cooperation, Climate Resilience, and Biodiversity, UN 2023 Water Conference, 23 March | New York


Ensuring universal access to modern and sustainable energy, water, and sanitation services, by addressing the three dimensions of sustainable development – the economic, social, and environmental – in a balanced and integrated manner, lies at the heart of sustainable development.

On 23 March on the margins of the UN 2023 Water Conference UN DESA in cooperation with members of the Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network convened a Side-Event to bring together multi-stakeholders to discuss and showcase existing initiatives addressing the water-energy nexus and share knowledge on replicable and scalable effective solutions.

The event included expert panelists from countries covering major world regions. Participants included representatives from Member States and from public, private, and non-profit organizations, as well as international organizations, and practitioners involved and interested in the research, development, management, and implementation of integrated water and energy solutions.

Watch here
Event Summary
Detailed Event Summary
Concept Note
Agenda
Video: Maria Antonia Gwynn, Itaipu Binacional, Paraguay

Panelist Presentations:
Miguel Angel Gálvez, Canal de Isabel II, Comunidad de Madrid, Spain
Ms. Annukka Lipponen, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Finland
Andrea Bolaños, ASAZGUA, Guatemala
Peter Dane, European Benchmarking Cooperation, The Netherlands
Isaac Cain Lascano, UNALA, Mexico
Jussara de Souza, Itaipu Binacional, Brazil
Daniel Vazquez, Itaipu Binacional, Paraguay
Samson Tsegaye, Stiftung Solarenergie Solar Energy Foundation, Ethiopia

 

 

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2023 Meeting of the Members of the Global Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network, 24 February 2023 | Madrid, Spain


On 24 February 2023, the meeting of the members of the Global Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network was held in person in Madrid, Spain, convened by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) and hosted by Canal de Isabel II. The objective of the meeting was to discuss the 2022 accomplishments and annual report, the tentative workplan for the 2023-2026 time period, members’ recommendations and support, Energy Compact updates, and other important Network activities. The event included 17 participants representing 10 member organizations. Member representatives each indicated their future contributions, recommendations for the Network, and next steps moving forward.

Summary
Presentation - UN DESA Secretariat - Global Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network - 2022 Accomplishments
2023 Timeline - Global Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network

 

 

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Capacity Development Workshop on Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions supporting Circular Economies, 23-24 February 2023 | Madrid, Spain


Building on ongoing efforts by the Global Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network, UN DESA convenved a Capacity Development Workshop from 23-24 February 2023, hosted by Canal de Isabel II in Madrid, Spain. The workshop brought together global experts to discuss water and energy sector interlinkages and interdependences, showcase existing initiatives, and mobilize action to accelerate efforts towards circular economies. Participants shared knowledge and highlighted experiences and innovative systems as well as discussed the social, economic, and environmental benefits that can be derived from sustainable water and energy solutions. The technical session of the event was Moderated by Mr. Manuel Menéndez Prieto, Special Advisor, Cabinet of the Secretary of State of Environment, Spain & Vice Chair, Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme, UNESCO. A panel of experts from Spain, Tajikistan, Guatemala, Brazil, Ethiopia, Bangladesh, Indonesia presented their ongoing initiatives that promote integrated water and energy management, followed by a question-and-answer session with the participants.

Event Summary
Agenda
Concept Note
Photo Album
Presentations:
Cristina Aparicio Maeztu, DG de Economía Circular de la Comunidad de Madrid
Ivonne Lobos Alva, SEI, Latin America
Samson Tsegaye, Solar Energy Foundation, Ethiopia
Dipti Vaghela, HPNET - Hydro Empowerment Network
Gustavo Paredes, UNALA, Guatemala
Gustavo Paredes, ASAZGUA, Guatemala
Ariel Scheffer da Silva, ITAIPU, Brazil
Vaysidin Saidov, EC IFAS, Tajikistan
Ana Carolina Gossen, ITAIPU Binacional, Paraguay

 

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Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions supporting Climate Change and Biodiversity Objectives through Innovation and Clean Technologies


On 9 November 2022, on the margins of COP27 in Egypt, UN DESA convened the event “Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions supporting Climate Change and Biodiversity Objectives through Innovation and Clean Technologies”. The event took place at the SDG Pavilion. The 2022 UN Conference on Climate Change (COP 27) offered a unique platform to discuss innovative and integrated technological systems for sustainable water and energy solutions supporting climate change and biodiversity objectives. The main objectives of the event were: 1) to exchange and disseminate knowledge and experiences related to innovative technological systems designed to ensure efficient and effective use of water and energy resources; 2) to discuss the potential benefits and impacts of these innovative systems on climate change and biodiversity.

Concept Note
Agenda
Flyer
Summary
Presentations:
Pascual Fernández, Canal de Isabel II
Carol Mungo, SEI, Kenya
Sergio D. Mendez Gaona , Itaipu Binacional
Maria A. Gwynn, Itaipu Binacional

 

 

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Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions to achieve Quality Education, Gender Equality, and Ecosystem Health through Strategic Partnerships


On 12 July 2022, UN DESA and Itaipu Binacional hosted a virtual side entitled “Sustainable Water and Energy solutions to Achieve Quality Education, Gender Equality and Ecosystem Health through Strategic Partnerships” in the margins of the High-Level Political Forum. The event featured remarks and presentations by the Permanent Missions of Brazil and Paraguay to the UN, as well as UN-system representatives and members and partners of the Water and Energy Solutions Network. At the event, the central role of the water and energy nexus in order to achieve all the 17 SDGs was highlighted, in particular in connection to the SDGs being reviewed at this year´s HLPF: SDG4 (Quality Education), SDG5 (Gender Equality), SDG14 (Life below water), SDG15 (Life on land) and SDG 17 (Partnerships). Following high-level opening and expert presentations, an interactive discussion also explored opportunities to scale-up action under the umbrella of the Global Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network.

Flyer
Concept Note
Solar Energy Foundation Ethiopia
Association of Sugar Producers of Guatemala
Canal de Isabel II Region of Madrid
HPNET
UGD RBMA – ITAIPU
Closing Remarks
Statement - Paraguay

 

 

water energy

The Global Symposium on Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions, 13-15 June 2022


UN DESA convened the first Global Symposium on Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions hosted by Itaipu Binacional, at its headquarters on 13-15 June 2022. The global symposium enhanced the capacities of stakeholders to effectively manage the water-energy nexus and its interlinkages with other SDGs. The event provided a global platform for stakeholders to disseminate knowledge, exchange experiences, and showcase best practices on integrated approaches that support sustainable water and energy solutions. It was also an opportunity for dialogue on effective policy, and technical and managerial approaches to water and energy supporting sustainable development. The discussions and outcomes of the Global Symposium set the groundwork for the development of the First World Report on the Status and Trends of Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions.

Summary
Draft Agenda
Flyer
Concept Note
Logistic Note

 

 

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The Role of the Private Industry in Support of the SDGs on Water, Energy, Biodiversity and Health, May 10, 2022


This event supported the United Nations Decade of Action by showing the importance of the industry in society, well-being of the population and the environment. The event provided an opportunity to show how private industry plays a key role in promoting the sustainable use of natural resources, economic development, and prosperity.


Flyer
Concept Note
Agenda
Panelist Presentations:
Sustainable Energy Team, UNDESA
Convention on Biological Diversity
ICC. Guatemala
State of São Paulo Environmental Company, CETESB. Brazil
Green Business Unit, CAF
UNICA. Brazil
Comunidad de Madrid. Spain
City of Escuintla, Guatemala
Canal de Isabel II. Spain
Partnerships and Business of the World Food Program
Guatemalan Sugar Industry, ASAZGUA
EDUCTRADE


 

 

water energy

TOWARDS THE FIRST GLOBAL SYMPOSIUM ON WATER AND ENERGY March 29, 2022 | 5:00pm-6:30pm (Dubai time UTC+4)


This global event at Expo 2020 Dubai provided a platform for the exchange of knowledge and experiences supporting a more sustainable world, with integrated approaches on SDG 6 (water) and SDG 7 (energy). It also announced the first Global Symposium on Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions, organized by Itaipu Binacional and the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA). The Global Symposium took place at Itaipu in June 2022.


Flyer
Concept Note
Agenda


 

 

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Bioenergy for sustainable development: Ethanol and electricity from sugarcane 23 March 2022


Sustainable production and consumption of bioenergy represent considerable opportunities that support the social, economic and environmental dimensions of sustainable development. Nevertheless, there are significant barriers to scaling up and replicating bioenergy good practices. The creation of an enabling environment for sustainable bioenergy production and the improvement of the management of water resources are necessary conditions for the development of bioenergy programmes in many countries that have great potential for biofuel use. This requires multi-stakeholder alliances among the public, private and civil society sectors that would allow feasible responses ensuring responsible consumption and production.


Flyer
Agenda
Concept Note
Speakers


 

 

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ANNUAL REPORT OF THE GLOBAL SUSTAINABLE WATER AND ENERGY SOLUTIONS NETWORK


The UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) and ITAIPU Binacional joined efforts in 2018, creating a partnership entitled “Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions” that recognized the need to address the interlinkages between water and energy and their contributions to the advancement of other SDGs. The initiative resulted in the creation of the Global Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network with a growing number of multi-stakeholders from all regions and constituencies.


Download Report

 

 

water energy

COP26 Side Event: Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions supporting Climate Change Objectives during the Decade of Action and Beyond


On 4 November 2021 from 10-11:30am EST / 14:00-15:30 Glasgow Time, the Sustainable Water & Energy Solutions Network hosted a side event at COP26. The event, moderated by Ms. Leena Srivastava, Deputy Director General for Science at IIASA, included Welcome Remarks by Mr. Liu Zhenmin, UN USG for Economic and Social Affairs and Opening Remarks by HE Mr. Bento Albuquerque, Minister of Mines and Energy, Brazil. The event included panelists from Canal De Isabel II, ICC Guatemala, Itaipu Binacional, SOLshare and the Solar Energy Foundation. Panelists shared their plans and outlooks related to climate change. These solutions included improvements in energy efficiency, investments in the developing world, innovative plans designed to transform the way we interact with energy and water, all in the interest of building climate mitigation, resilience, and adaptation.


Summary
Agenda
Concept Note
Panelist Presentations:
Canal de Isabel II
Private Institute for Climate Change Research (ICC)
Itaipu Binacional
SOLshare
Solar Energy Foundation

 

 

water energy

Side Event on Energy Compact of the Global Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network


On 24 September 2021 from 7-8:15 (NY time) a side event on “Energy Compact of the Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network”, was held at the High Level Dialogue on Energy. This side event showcased the three participating organizations of the Network with voluntary commitments - Itaipu Binacional, Canal de Isabel II, and Asazgua - who presented and discussed their commitments and explained how these commitments support transformative pathways on energy and water and scale-up actions supporting climate change objectives.



Summary
Agenda
Concept Note

Panelist Presentations:
UNDESA presentation
Canal de Isabel II presentation
Asazgua presentation

 

 

water energy

Webinar on Water and Energy Solutions Boosting Social Actions in Support of SDGs 3 and 4


On 18 August 2021 from 10-11:30 (NY time) the webinar on Water and Energy Solutions Boosting Social Actions in Support of SDGs 3 and 4, organized by the Global Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network in cooperation with its founding member ITAIPU, brought together multi-stakeholders to discuss and showcase existing initiatives and disseminate information on how sustainable water and energy solutions can promote well-being and quality education. Moderated by Ms. Isabel Raya, Sustainable Energy Expert, Division for Sustainable Development Goals, UNDESA this event kicked off with welcoming remarks by Gustavo Ovelar on behalf of Mr. Luiz Felipe Carbonell of Itaipu Binacional. The panel of experts from UNESCO, Itaipu, Solar Energy Foundation, Canal de Isabel II and the World Energy Council shared experiences on how sustainable water and energy solutions can promote well-being including health and quality education.

Agenda
Concept Note

Panelist Presentations:
UNESCO
Itaipu Binacional
Canal de Isabel II
Solar Energy Foundation
World Energy Council

 

water energy

Webinar on The Key Role of Biodiversity in Support of Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions, Terrestrial Ecosystems and Climate Change Objectives


On 13 August 2021 from 10-11:30 (NY time) a webinar on The Key Role of Biodiversity in Support of Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions, Terrestrial Ecosystems and Climate Change Objectives, organized by the Global Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network in cooperation with its founding member ITAIPU, brought together multi-stakeholders to discuss and showcase existing initiatives and disseminate information on how supporting biodiversity is integral to sustainable water and energy systems. Moderated by Ms. Lucy Aquino, WWF this event kicked off with welcoming remarks by Coordination Directors, Mr. Luiz Felipe Carbonell and Miguél Gomez, Itaipu Binacional. The panel of experts from Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute and the National Zoo, Life Institute, Convention on Biological Diversity and Itaipu Binacional shared experiences on biodiversity, water, and energy for fighting climate change.

Agenda
Concept Note

Panelist Presentations:
ITAIPU presentation
CBD presentation
Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute presentation
Life Institute

 

 

water energy

Report on Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions addressing Climate Change


This report seeks to inform the ongoing expert and public policy debate on sustainable water and energy solutions addressing climate change with a view to facilitate information exchange, enhance local, national and international cooperation, and stimulate collaborative development actions that “leave no one behind” in terms of water supply and sanitation, access to sustainable energy, and protection from potential negative impacts of climate change. The Report includes descriptions of selected technological areas and innovative systems that represent sustainable water and energy solutions addressing climate change. This report is an output of the global multi-stakeholder “Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network” launched jointly by UN DESA and Itaipu Binacional in 2018 to enhance capacities and cooperation and to enable an integrated approach to the Sustainable Development Goals on water (SDG 6) and energy (SDG 7) and the interlinkages with other SDGs, particularly SDG 13 on climate change.

Download Report

 

 

flyer for bioenergy webinar

Side Event on Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Addressing Climate Change during the Decade of Action


On 12 July 2021 from 7:30-9:00 (NY time) the virtual side event "Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Addressing Climate Change during the Decade of Action" was organized by the Global Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network during the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF). Global leaders discussed  water and energy sector interlinkages and interdependences and showcased existing initiatives to accelerate the adoption of integrated water and energy solutions toward achieving the 2030 Agenda.

Summary
Agenda
Concept Note

Panelist Presentations:
UNDESA Launching Report SWES Addressing Climate Change
Canal de Isabel II - Actions for SDG13 & SDG15 implementation on the Region of Madrid
Itaipu - Take Urgent Action to Combat Climate Change and its Impacts
ICC - Climate action from the sugar agroindustry of Guatemala

 

 

flyer for bioenergy webinar

Master in Renewable Energy in the Marine Environment

 
The Master in Renewable Energy in the Marine Environment (REM plus) is an Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Degree (EMJMD) offered by four universities: the University of the Basque Country, the University College Cork, the Norwegian University of Science and Technology and École Centrale de Nantes. The master is co-funded by the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union and provides some fully funded scholarships. This Masters Degree is an example of international cooperation for education and training in the marine energy field, gathering more than 50 associate partners from a wide range of sectors such as industries, research centers and universities, but could welcome more.

More information
Poster

 

 

 

flyer for bioenergy webinar

Webinar on Ocean Energy

 

On 29 June 2021 from 9-10:30 (NY time) a webinar on Ocean Energy, organized by the Global Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network in cooperation with its member SINTEF, brought together multi-stakeholders to showcase existing initiatives and disseminate information on ocean energy. Moderated by Mr. Moez Jomaa, Senior Research Scientist of SINTEF, this event kicked off with welcoming remarks by Mr. Ivan Vera, Senior Advisor, UN DESA. The panel of experts from IRENA, SINTEF in Norway, Orbital Marine Power in Scotland, Makai Ocean Engineering in Hawaii, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) and University of Trento in Italy, shared experiences on integrated water and energy solutions related to ocean energy.

Download Webinar Summary
Download Webinar Agenda
Concept Note

Panelist Presentations:
UNDESA Opening Remarks
SINTEF presentation
Makai Ocean Engineering presentation
University of Trento presentation
IRENA presentation

 

 

flyer for bioenergy webinar

Network Contributes to Global Efforts on SDG7 by Announcing Energy Compact

 
On 24 June 2021 at the MINISTERIAL THEMATIC FORUM ON ENABLING SDGs THROUGH INCLUSIVE, JUST ENERGY TRANSITIONS, Ivan Vera, Senior Energy Advisor, on behalf of the Global Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network, announced that three Network members have made voluntary commitments for ​an Energy Compact:

  • Itaipu Binacional, the hydroelectric power organization of Brazil and Paraguay, committed to invest USD 5 million in capacity development for energy access, energy efficiency and renewable energy, and USD 200 million to strengthen electrical transmission and distribution, consequently improving reliability, efficiency and electricity access in Paraguay;
  • The Guatemalan sugar association ASAZGUA and Spanish water company of the Community of Madrid Canal de Isabel II each commit to expanding its electricity generation to cover 100% of its electricity demand with 100% clean renewable sources by 2030;
  • AASAZGUA additionally commits to meet at least 30% of the electricity demand of Guatemala during the three dry months of the year through renewable energy, increase production of ethanol for transportation by 20%, and develop a new form of bioenergy from biological residues; and
  • Canal de Isabel II additionally commits to increase its energy efficiency by 6.8% by 2025 and to invest more than EUR 80 million over the next 10 years to meet these energy commitments.

 

 

flyer for bioenergy webinar

Webinar on Bioenergy for Sustainable Development

 
On 8 June 2021 from 10-11:30 (NY time) the Global Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network in cooperation with its member ASAZGUA, brought together multi-stakeholders to discuss and showcase existing initiatives and disseminate information on bioenergy. Moderated by Jinlei Feng, Programme Officer of IRENA, this event kicked off with welcoming remarks by Mr. Ivan Vera, Senior Advisor, UN DESA. The panel of experts from Sao Paulo State Government in Brazil, ASAZGUA in Guatemala, IIASA, UNICA in Brazil, and Canal de Isabel II in Spain, shared experiences on integrated water and energy solutions related to bioenergy.

Download Webinar Summary
Download Webinar Agenda - English
Download Webinar Agenda - Portugues
Download Webinar Agenda - Spanish
Concept Note

Panelist Presentations:
UNDESA Opening Remarks
ASAZGUA presentation
IIASA Scenarios for Sustainable Biofuel Development presentation
UNICA Sugarcane Bioenergy in Brazil presentation
Canal de Isabel II presentation

 

 

flyer for Desalination Using Renewable Energy

Desalination Using Renewable Energy

 

On 7 June 2021 from 8-9:30 (NY time) as part of the Global Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network webinar series, ESCWA in cooperation DESA brought together multi-stakeholders to discuss and showcase existing initiatives and disseminate information on desalination systems powered with renewable energy. Moderated by Ms. Radia Sedaoui, Chief Energy, UNESCWA, the event kicked off with welcoming remarks by Mr. Ivan Vera, Senior Advisor, UN DESA. The panel of experts from Morocco, UAE, Spain, Algeria, Tunisia, and Egypt presented existing initiatives on desalination systems powered with renewable energy followed by a question and answer session with the participants.

Download Webinar Summary
Download Webinar Agenda
Concept Note

Panelist Presentations:
UNDESA Opening Remarks
Morocco Desalination & Renewables Perspectives Presentation
CRTSE Algeria Desalination Powered Renewable Energies Presentation
IDWT Renewable Resources for Desalination Presentation
SONEDE Tunisia Desalination Presentation
Gran Canaria Water Council Response to Climate Emergency Presentation
Environment Agency Powering Desalination through Solar Energy Presentation

 

 

water energy

Meeting of the Members of the Global Network on Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions


On 25 March 2021, the Global Network of Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions virtually convened with the objective to update Network members of completed activities in 2020 and discuss the upcoming workplans for 2021-2023. The meeting was moderated by  UNDESA with participation from representatives of 12 member organizations. UNDESA provided detailed overviews of the tentative workplans for each of the upcoming years, including primary focus areas and proposed activities that will help maintain the Network continuity supporting integrated water and energy solutions worldwide. Member representatives each indicated their future contributions, recommendations for the Network and next steps moving forward.

Download Meeting Summary
Download Meeting Presentation

 

 

Course on Management for Territorial Sustainability

Course on Management for Territorial Sustainability

E-learning Course | 18 January 2021

 

ITAIPU Binacional and Parque Tecnológico Itaipu (PTI-BR) are hosting the “Management for Territorial Sustainability Course” for English speaking participants as part of the International School for Sustainability (EIS), an educational initiative developed by both institutions. This course is free of charge and as an e-learning course, participants can go through classes at their own pace creating their own learning experiences. Classes begin on 18 January 2021 and the registration deadline is 10 January 2021. For more information and registration, please go to Parque Tecnológico Itaipu’s website or download the information flyer provided here.

Regional Capacity Development Event Latin America and the Caribbean

Regional Capacity Development Event Latin America and the Caribbean – Integrated Water and Energy Systems Supporting a Sustainable Recovery from COVID-19

15 December 2020 | Virtual Webinar

On 15 November 2020, DESA/DSDG in collaboration with ECLAC and the Global Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network organized a regional capacity development webinar with a focus on Latin America and the Caribbean: "Integrated Water and Energy Systems Supporting a Sustainable Recovery from COVID-19." Moderated by Mr. Ivan Vera, Senior Advisor, UN DESA, the event kicked off with welcoming remarks by Ms. Silvia Saravia, Economic Affairs Officer, ECLAC. Following an introductory session by a technical consultant from ECLAC, experts from Paraguay, Bolivia, Guatemala, and Ecuador led an interactive panel discussion featuring experiences, methodologies and innovative solutions designed to ensure the efficient and effective use of water and energy resources.

Download Webinar Agenda
Download Webinar Summary

Panelist Presentations:
ITAIPU Binacional Presentation
Climate Change Research Institution Presentation
ENERGÉTICA Presentation
ECLAC Integrated Water and Energy Systems for Sustainable Recovery from COVID-19
ECLAC Methodological Guide on Water-Energy and Food Nexus Design and Actions

 

 

FEATURED CASE STUDIES

 

New Case Study by CANAL

Location: Spain

New Case Study by CANAL: Advance Measurement of Water Consumption, January 2024

SDG 6
SDG 7
SDG 6

Canal De Isabel II produced a case study on how the measurement of water consumption is an essential element for the proper management of the resource. It is especially relevant in countries with water scarcity, but it undoubtedly brings clear benefits in those that do not have drought problems. In supplies that lack measurement of the consumption made by users, one of the best practices to gain efficiency in management is the installation of water meters


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ASAZGUA’s 17 Case Studies

Location: Guatemala

17 CASE STUDIES BY ASAZGUA DETAILING ACTIVITIES CONTRIBUTING TO THE 17 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS, MARCH 2023

SDG 6
SDG 7
SDG 6

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Guatemala

Location: Guatemala

Activities by the Guatemala Sugar Agroindustry supporting the Sustainable Development Goal 13 (SDG 13) of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development

SDG 6
SDG 7
SDG 6

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FEATURED PUBLICATIONS

water energy

2022 ANNUAL REPORT OF THE GLOBAL SUSTAINABLE WATER AND ENERGY SOLUTIONS NETWORK

The 2022 Annual report of the Global Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network reviews the milestones and key activities from a busy year for the network. Including capacity-building events, advocacy and outreach, and members sharing best practices. The network convened at Expo 2020 in Dubai, hosted its First Global Symposium on Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions, and put together side events at HLPF and COP27, among several others. It also expanded its Knowledge Management Platform with additional relevant data, reports and case studies. The report also highlights plans for 2023.


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water energy

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE GLOBAL SUSTAINABLE WATER AND ENERGY SOLUTIONS NETWORK

The UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) and ITAIPU Binacional joined efforts in 2018, creating a partnership entitled “Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions” that recognized the need to address the interlinkages between water and energy and their contributions to the advancement of other SDGs. The initiative resulted in the creation of the Global Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network with a growing number of multi-stakeholders from all regions and constituencies.


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water energy

2020 Annual Report of the Global Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network



The importance of energy and water and their strong interdependence have become more evident during the COVID-19 world crisis of 2020. In light of the terrible consequences resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, sustainable water, and energy solutions are viewed as a necessary response during this world health crisis and beyond. This report highlights the commitment of the Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network’s vision working towards a world where there is equitable and sustainable use and management of water and energy resources for all, in support of human well-being, ecosystem integrity, and a robust, inclusive economy under the umbrella of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

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water energy

Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions: Addressing Critical Services during the COVID-19 World Crisis and Beyond

07 July 2020

The Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions Network is developing a Global Knowledge Platform with a view to collect information on activities, case studies and systems being implemented or planned using an integrated approach to water and energy challenges. The main objective of this scoping paper is to provide preliminary recommendations for the possible scope, priority content, structure and operational mechanisms of the envisioned Global Knowledge Platform.

Download the Scoping Paper here

 

 

water energy

The Sustainable Development Goals Report 2020

Convened by UN DESA, the Sustainable Development Goals Report 2020 seeks to provide an overview of SDG implementation and efforts. The report focuses and brings together areas of progress and areas where action is still needed, to ensure that no one is left behind and highlights key areas and initial impacts in the time of the COVID-19 pandemic. Access Report.

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UN DESA (Founding member)



ITAIPU Binacional (Founding member)

Founded by UN-DESA and ITAIPU Binacional.

Visit this website to read more about the partnership