The 21st century in climate change sees a new emphasis on enquiry and analysis into the supply and security of the basics – water, food and energy. This theme takes up the policy, cultural, economic and legal implications of sustainability in this area.

Water

Climate change, population growth and rapid urbanisation are placing great pressure on water supply to cities, regional centres and the agricultural sector. University of Melbourne researchers have wide ranging expertise. Water research in this theme focuses on urban and rural water issues, national and regional analyses, and also focuses on comparative and international studies especially in the Asia Pacific region. Design solutions, urban storm water, catchment management, water monitoring and accounting, water in developing countries, water law and governance and socio-cultural analyses of water management are some areas of key expertise.

Food

Secure, affordable access to food and a nutritious diet are fundamental preconditions for health and wellbeing – at individual, community and population levels. More broadly, there is increasing evidence of the synergies and co-benefits between policies that would enable sustainable, resilient environments and communities, and the improvement of population health and wellbeing. Research in this sub-program focuses on food, its consumers and the governance of food production and markets.

Energy

Please visit the website of the Melbourne Energy Institute, which focuses on energy economics and policy, especially optimal economic and regulatory frameworks for the equitable distribution of the costs of new energy technologies.