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
Blog Post 
Blog Post 
Blog Post 
Publications
Optimising the water we eat—rethinking policy to enhance productive and sustainable use of water in agri-food systems across scales
Uhlenbrook, Stefan; Yu, W.; Schmitter, Petra; Smith, Douglas Mark. 2022. Optimising the water we eat—rethinking policy to enhance productive and sustainable use of water in agri-food systems across scales. Lancet Planetary Health, 6(1):E59-E65. [doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/S2542-5196(21)00264-3]Impact of raised beds on surface runoff and soil loss in Alfisols and Vertisols
Garg, K. K.; Anantha, K. H.; Dixit, S.; Nune, R.; Venkataradha, A.; Wable, P.; Budama, N.; Singh, R. 2021. Impact of raised beds on surface runoff and soil loss in Alfisols and Vertisols. Catenac. 211:105972. DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.catena.2021.105972Impact of agricultural water management interventions on upstream–downstream trade-offs in the upper Cauvery catchment, southern India: a modelling study
Wable, P. S.; Garg, K. K.; Nune, R.; Venkataradha, A.; Anantha K. H.; Srinivasan, V.; Ragab, R.; Rowan, J.; Keller, V.; Majumdar, P.; Rees, G.; Singh, R.; Dixit, S. 2021. Impact of agricultural water management interventions on upstream–downstream trade-offs in the upper Cauvery catchment, southern India: a modelling study. Irrigation and Drainage.2021:1–23. DOI:https://doi.org/10.1002/ird.2662
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