Inaugural Professorial Lecture: Interconnected Hydrosystems Optimisation

Interconnected Hydrosystems Optimisation: Catalysing Water Resources Circularity through the Water, Energy & Food (WEF) Nexus

Professor Kiran Tota-Maharaj’s inaugural professorial lecture will explore the intricate connections between hydrological processes, water resources & the broader environment. Examining the complex interdependencies between Water Resources, Energy Infrastructure & Food Systems (WEF). It will emphasise the critical role of education in cultivating a skilled workforce to address global challenges at the intersection of these vital resources. By highlighting the Royal Agricultural University’s commitment to applied research and the Water Research Centre (WRc) strength in innovation, this lecture will demonstrate how innovation can drive sustainability for critical resources. Through real-world case studies, Prof. Tota-Maharaj will present a vision for a future characterised by resilient water resources, abundant renewable energy, and food security. This achievable vision can become a reality through collaboration, comprehensive education, entrepreneurial spirit, and the strategic implementation of Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM).

Core Themes of Inaugural Professorial Lecture:

· The Criticality of Hydrosystems: The lecture will emphasise the indispensable role of hydrosystems in supporting well-being and ecosystems’ health. It will explore the intricate connections between hydrological processes, water resources, and the broader environment.

· The WEF Nexus: By examining the complex interdependencies between water, energy, and food, this professorial lecture will highlight the need for a sustainability systems-based approach to address global challenges. It will explore how these sectors are interconnected and how their management can be optimised for mutual benefits.

· The Role of Education at the Royal Agricultural University (RAU): The lecture will discuss the importance of education at the Royal Agricultural University (RAU) in developing a skilled workforce capable of understanding and addressing the complexities of the WEF nexus. It will explore the need for interdisciplinary programmes and research that fosters continued innovation and problem-solving.

· The Power of Innovation by the Water Research Centre (WRc): By showcasing the Water Research Centre (WRc) applied innovation, technological solutions and industry strengths, this lecture will demonstrate how innovation through partnerships and collaborations can drive sustainable solutions. It will explore case studies of successful WRc projects that have addressed water, energy, and food (WEF) nexus imperatives and challenges.

· The Vision for the Future: The lecture will present a compelling vision of a future where water resources are resilient, energy is clean and abundant, and food security is guaranteed. It will outline the key strategies, including collaboration, education, entrepreneurship, and integrated water resources management, necessary to achieve this vision.

By fostering a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of water, energy, and food (WEF), this Professorial Inaugural lecture aims to inspire the next generation of practitioners to create a more sustainable and equitable future.

We will be video recording this lecture. If you would like a copy, please email us at [email protected] for a link.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Royal Agricultural University, Stroud Road, Cirencester, United Kingdom