This project explores the shifting global political economy of key resources (land, water, energy, minerals and food) through analysing their inter-linkages in production, use and trade. 

The prospect of resource scarcity, both real and perceived, has fast become a major item on the global policy agenda. This has called into question the sustainability of current developmental paths, and highlights the resource implications of a global transition to a low-carbon economy. Misperceptions and poor policy could fuel geopolitical tensions, undermine global economic and environmental cooperation, foster local and regional insecurity and disproportionately affect the livelihoods of the world’s poorest.

Managing these growing global resource stresses together with a successful transition to sustainable and equitable resource use will test the resilience of global and regional regimes and governance mechanisms. The ongoing reconfiguration of the international political economy of resources trade and use remain poorly understood. The complex policy implications of these momentous shifts need to be systematically evaluated and translated into concrete policy recommendations for governments and businesses.

Project Aims

This project seeks to bring fresh perspectives, distinguish perceptions from realities, and provide practical tools for policymakers and stakeholders. More specifically, it will:

• Strengthen the evidence base through empirical analysis of the shifting global political economy of natural resources. This involves analysing global patterns of resource production and trade as well as their interlinkages; mapping emerging trends against environmental and other pressures; and evaluating the policy implications for governments, businesses and other stakeholders.
   
• Drive public outreach, and engage with governments, business schools and universities to help facilitate interconnected thinking around resources in the global economy.
  
  
• Provide an opportunity for high-level dialogue between various stakeholders on the ramifications of the emerging global political economy of resources and generate relevant strategies.

Event

Resource Revolution: Meeting the World's Energy, Water, Food and Material Needs
24 November 2011 9:30 - 11:00

Publication

Resources, Rights and Development in a Changing World
Meeting Summary, June 2011

Contact

For more information please contact Estelle Rouhaud.