This article was developed as an outcome of the “Water-Energy-Food Nexus” High Level Panel (HLP) which took place at the XVI World Water Congress, Cancun Mexico, June 1, 2017. The HLP’s goal was to demonstrate the extent of interconnection between the water, energy, and food Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations. The HLP highlighted lessons learned from various thematic and regional case studies and experiences. The panel focused on exploring the possible trade-offs among possible pathways for implementation of the SDGs, and on identifying holistic assessment criteria for accounting for potential competition of multiple implementation plans at different scales. This focus led to substantial discussion about ways to improve policy coherence through improved communication between policy and science across both sectors and scales.

This article was developed as an outcome of the “Water-Energy-Food Nexus” High Level Panel (HLP) which took place at the XVI World Water Congress, Cancun Mexico, June 1, 2017. The HLP’s goal was to demonstrate the extent of interconnection between the water, energy, and food Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations. The HLP highlighted lessons learned from various thematic and regional case studies and experiences. The panel focused on exploring the possible trade-offs among possible pathways for implementation of the SDGs, and on identifying holistic assessment criteria for accounting for potential competition of multiple implementation plans at different scales. This focus led to substantial discussion about ways to improve policy coherence through improved communication between policy and science across both sectors and scales.

A lack of equitable access to water among marginalized populations is a key constraint to the transformative agri-food system in Bangladesh. A centralized approach to managing water, persistent contextual socioecological barriers and the dominance of the powerful elite at multiple levels in the water governance systems have led to the exclusion of women, the poor, fishers and the landless from equitably accessing water resources. These challenges contradict national policy guidelines on participatory water management. The Asia Mega-Deltas initiative, in partnership with the Oxfam-led Transboundary Rivers of South Asia (TROSA)—Rivers, Rights and Resilience Project, plans to implement participatory research using a transdisciplinary approach that involves multiple sectors and stakeholders in water management to identify actionable pathways to addressing complex water issues. The TROSA second phase (2023–2026) will continue to work with evidence-based advocacy on inclusive water resources governance while addressing impacts of climate change on riparian communities through incorporating a citizen science approach for river health, supporting youth initiatives in the water sector, facilitating bilateral dialogues, strengthening resilience of livelihoods and ensuring people’s rights over river with special focus on women and Indigenous communities.

As we embark on the 'fourth industrial revolution', digital innovation emerges as a promising solution to critical challenges in food production, consumption, and the supportive triad of food, land, and water systems. This potential is particularly pronounced in less industrialised, agrarian-based economies. Digital advancements promise enhanced communication, improved data management, democratic and transparent governance, accessible financial services, and decision-making support. Nevertheless, there are rising concerns about the risk of digital innovation bypassing individuals with scant education, scarce resources, native populations, and susceptible demographics such as women and young people, thus depriving them of its advantages. Additionally, the potential harms of digital technologies to these populations and society are worth considerable attention. This article addresses the concept of digital inclusivity within food, land, and water systems, emphasising the diverse needs of various groups, particularly those managing smallholder land holdings. We present evidence from peer-reviewed literature and other sources supporting the need for inclusive digital innovation. We introduce a comprehensive five-dimensional framework CAUSE (Consequences, Accessibility, Usefulness, Support, Enabling) with twenty-two indicators to foster digital inclusivity. Building on this framework, we propose a 'Digital Inclusivity Index' encompassing these multidimensional aspects. The paper argues for a broader 'digital ecosystem' perspective, where collaborative knowledge and resource sharing enhance digital innovation, extending beyond mere technology adoption to include shifts in existing social structures and institutions. Thus, the CAUSE framework helps in enabling wider access to digital innovation and has the useful consequence of increased support for its practical applications, enhancing its overall usefulness to society.

Food, land, and water systems underpin the health of societies and the environment, yet they are facing pressure from climate change, population growth, urbanization, and the overexploitation of natural resources. Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) have the potential to support food, land, and water systems in response to these challenges. This report explores issues of inclusivity and equity of ICTs and how these technologies might be better used to their full potential.