Research to Inform Policy

Supporting informed, regionally-appropriate policy, laws, and regulations in the water and food sectors

Academic research can play an important role in the development of informed policy in any sector. Given the presence of critical scientific, technical, economic, and data challenges related to water and food policy, J-WAFS aims for research that is accessible, relevant, and actionable. We encourage our funded researchers to consider the policy relevance of their work, and we facilitate connections and promote engagement with policy makers and other key stakeholders at the local, regional, national, and international levels. J-WAFS also sponsors events and workshops on targeted topics that bring experts and stakeholders together to discuss and craft research and policy agendas.

Examples of our work in this area

Climate Change and Global Food Security

Climate Change and Global Food Security: Supporting Adaptation and Mitigation Strategies with Research

This cross-institutional, multidisciplinary project is identifying the most important knowledge gaps and research needs at the nexus of climate change and food systems.

Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam Workshop

November 13-14, 2014

This two-day gathering of experts addressed the technical issues involved in the construction and operation of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, with the aim of providing an independent, impartial evaluation to aid in decision making.

Flow chart of minerals being used to create fertilizer to grow plants

Affordable Potassium Fertilizer from K Feldspar for Africa

J-WAFS seed grant integrates geology, agronomy, and material science to provide smart fertilizer materials suited to local agronomic conditions, and provide recommendations for policy makers on advances in materials science that can contribute significantly to global food security.