Changing patterns of resource consumption have a major impact on the Water–Food–Energy (WFE) nexus, a core concept in IB Geography. As global demand for water, food, and energy increases, the interdependence between these resources becomes more complex and difficult to manage. Shifts in population, economic development, and lifestyle are placing increasing pressure on all three systems simultaneously.

One key trend affecting the WFE nexus is rising energy consumption. Growing populations, industrialisation, and increased use of technology have significantly raised global energy demand. Many energy production methods require large amounts of water, particularly thermal power stations and biofuel production. As energy demand increases, water resources are diverted toward energy generation, reducing availability for agriculture and domestic use. This can intensify water scarcity, especially in already dry regions.

Changes in food consumption patterns also affect the nexus. As incomes rise, diets often shift toward higher meat and dairy consumption. Meat production is highly resource-intensive, requiring large quantities of water, energy, and animal feed. This increases pressure on freshwater supplies and energy systems, particularly in countries experiencing rapid dietary change. As a result, producing food becomes more energy- and water-dependent, increasing vulnerability within the nexus.

Urbanisation further intensifies pressure on the WFE nexus. Growing cities require reliable energy for housing, transport, and industry, as well as large quantities of food and clean water. Supplying urban populations often involves transporting food and water over long distances, increasing energy use. Urban lifestyles also tend to be more resource-intensive, amplifying demand across all three sectors.

Climate change acts as a multiplier of consumption trends. Rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns reduce water availability and agricultural productivity while increasing energy demand for cooling and irrigation. This creates feedback loops within the WFE nexus, where stress in one system increases pressure on the others. For example, drought reduces food production, leading to increased irrigation and energy use, which further strains water supplies.

In IB Geography, it is important to recognise that changing consumption trends affect regions differently. Low-income countries may struggle to meet basic needs as resource competition increases, while high-income countries contribute disproportionately to global demand. This imbalance raises concerns about sustainability, equity, and long-term resource security.

Managing the impacts of changing consumption trends requires integrated resource planning. Governments must consider how decisions in one sector affect others and aim to reduce waste, improve efficiency, and promote sustainable consumption patterns. Without coordinated management, increasing demand risks overwhelming the Water–Food–Energy nexus.

Overall, changing resource consumption trends place growing strain on the interconnected systems of water, food, and energy. Understanding these impacts helps IB Geography students explain resource insecurity and evaluate sustainable management strategies effectively.

RevisionDojo supports IB Geography students by clarifying complex resource interactions and helping learners apply WFE nexus concepts confidently in exam-style answers.