Science-driven solutions
A synthesis of research and innovations that address the world's critical water, land and ecosystem challenges.
Connected thinking, compelling solutions
The CGIAR Research Program on Water, Land and Ecosystems (WLE) was a global research-for-development program connecting partners to deliver sustainable agricultural solutions, strengthen ecosystem health, and create resilient water, land and food systems. It operated between 2012 and 2021.
Highlights
Biodiversity and agriculture
A rapid evidence review that explores agriculture’s relationship with biodiversity and recommends actions to implement more nature-positive food production
From Research to Resilience
Climate-smart solutions to enhance ecosystem health and strengthen food, nutrition and water security for all
The WLE-hosted webinar series discussed the critically important role of research and innovation to secure more inclusive, sustainable and resilient futures.
Innovation for sustainable agri-food systems
Evidence from the Commission on Sustainable Agriculture Intensification (CoSAI) considers the investment landscape; improving innovation impact; and priorities for consideration in future food systems.
Learning from research on water governance: Priorities for One CGIAR
A review that builds on WLE research to identify the most pressing governance challenges and how governance effectiveness can be improved – thereby transforming water governance into a positive force for the future.
News
Thrive
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Blog Post 
Blog Post 
Publications
Eight research and innovation principles for sustainable and equitable agri-food system
Commission on Sustainable Agriculture Intensification. 2021. Eight research and innovation principles for sustainable and equitable agri-food systems. CoSAI Policy Brief 6. Colombo, Sri Lanka: Commission on Sustainable Agriculture Intensification
Better instruments and approaches are needed to transform agri-food systems research and innovation
Commission on Sustainable Agriculture Intensification. 2021. Better instruments and approaches are needed to transform agri-food systems research and innovation. CoSAI Policy Brief 4. Colombo, Sri Lanka: Commission on Sustainable Agriculture Intensification
Mining the gaps: Using machine learning to map 1.2 million agri-food publications from the Global South
Commission on Sustainable Agriculture Intensification. 2021. Mining the gaps: Using machine learning to map 1.2 million agri-food publications from the Global South. CoSAI Policy Brief 3. Colombo, Sri Lanka: Commission on Sustainable Agriculture Intensification
Conversation Starters
Research
200+ research projects in 84 countries carried out in collaboration with more than 380 partners
Solutions
A synthesis of research and innovations that address the world's critical water, land and ecosystem challenges
Impact
333,000 farmers use new technologies and 2,9 million hectares are under improved use or management