The Water-Energy-Food (WEF) nexus argues that through their linkages and trade-offs sustainable development maybe achieved. Colombia is a developing country with a relatively good WEF-nexus index indicator compared to other Latin American countries. However, WEF resources are not only inequitable distributed across the geography but also broadly unsustainably used as environmental conditions are swiftly deteriorating due to climate change. Such is the case of La Guajira, a department located at the north of Colombia which a large indigenous Wayuu communities that suffers extreme poverty and child starvation. The objective of this paper was to assess a dynamic hypothesis for sustainable development, based on the WEF nexus trade-offs, applied to the livelihoods of Wayuu indigenous communities in the High Guajira, being an isolated and challenging desertic territory. A system dynamics model approach is undertaken to understand feedbacks, delays and non-linear relationships inherent in the WEF dynamics. Results were validated using structure behavioral tests. Findings suggest that solar PV systems must be implemented to improve energy access and applications. Efficient ground water management is required for pumping and irrigate small areas to produce horticultural crops. Under these conditions, crops could generate surplus and improve the food security and economic wellbeing of communities.
Complete tool for submission, evaluation and publication of proceedings for scientific events.
