Together Towards Sustainable Water and Food Futures

We promote sustainable water use by studying how food production and consumption impact water resources.

About the Project

The Navigating the Route to Sustainable Water-Food Futures project aims to identify solutions that reduce water overuse and pollution while ensuring food security and the economic viability of food production.

The project develops nature-based and technological innovations that enhance the resilience of agriculture and food systems and reduce their environmental impacts. In addition, it seeks to generate new knowledge about the effects of water scarcity on the sustainability of food systems and provide tools that enable stakeholders – such as farmers, policymakers, and consumers – to make more responsible and sustainable choices.

By combining interdisciplinary research with solution-oriented collaboration with stakeholders, the project strives to build water-resilient food systems both in Finland and globally.

WAWE Program – Water for Welfare, Security and Peace

This research project is part of the Strategic Research Council’s programme Water for Welfare, Security and Peace. The projects within the programme aim to produce sustainable, just, and science-based solutions for the management of water and marine environments, as well as for strengthening water security.

The WAWE programme brings together seven universities, seven research institutes, and one think tank. Together, we conduct high-level water research to support decision-making, while engaging and involving various actors across society. The Strategic Research Council (SRC), operating in connection with the Academy of Finland, funds five research projects within the programme with a total of €14.6 million for the period 2024–2030.

Research Areas

Smarter water management for sustainable farming

We study how a tailored transition from rainfed farming to nature- and technology-based water management can support profitable, sustainable, resilient, and regenerative primary production. The goal is to develop solutions that help agriculture adapt to global changes and challenges, ensuring long-term productivity and resource efficiency.

Building water-resilient food systems

This work package examines both the environmental impact of food production and how food value chains adapt to changing water availability. We study how market mechanisms and policies influence these adaptations, aiming to support more resilient and sustainable food systems.

How society shapes the use of water and food

We investigate the values, attitudes, and decision-making of key actors in the food system, such as farmers, the food industry, consumers, and policymakers. In addition, we assess how current and alternative diets affect water resources and the environment in Finland, providing insights for more sustainable food choices.

Global challenges shaping water and food futures

This work package assesses the impact of global drivers—such as climate change, population growth, and economic shifts—on future food demand, supply, and water use in Finland and globally. We also explore adaptation and mitigation strategies, including improved resource management, food loss reduction, dietary shifts, and food innovations, to reduce environmental impacts while ensuring food security within planetary boundaries.

Project Organisations

Be Part of the Solution – Join Our Network!

Join our network if you want to stay updated on the progress of the research project, upcoming events, collaboration opportunities, and our results.

Join Our Network