Journal of Advanced Informatics in Water, Soil, and Structure

Journal of Advanced Informatics in Water, Soil, and Structure

Proposing a Conceptual Model of the Water-Energy-Food-Environment Nexus in the Agricultural Sector

Document Type : Research Article

Authors
Elahe Ahani 1
Saman Ziaee 1
Mostafa Mardani Najafabadi 2
1 Address: Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering, University of Zabol, Iran.
2 Department of Agricultural Economics, Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, University of Khuzestan,
10.22048/wss.2025.499094.1014
Abstract
Regarding natural resources, Iran possesses a rich biodiversity that provides a foundation for biological security, prosperity, and economic development, as well as supporting sustainable production. Accordingly, wise management and sustainable utilization of these invaluable resources are crucial. Sustainability strategies, protection of natural resources, and pollution control have introduced complexities and challenges due to the existing interdependencies among resources. Therefore, focusing on one aspect without considering others can lead to serious consequences for the region or the entire system. Consequently, this research presents a conceptual model for managing the climate Water-Energy-Food Nexus (WEFN) in the Mashhad study area for the years 2018-2019. The results indicated that by applying the nexus approach, farmers' gross profits increased by 40%, total consumption costs decreased by 40%, and environmental impacts were reduced by 21%. Overall, the findings suggest that utilizing the Optimal integrated model allows farmers to balance environmental considerations, optimal consumption, and resource sustainability while selecting and implementing policies that sustain economic income.
Keywords
Sustainable development
agriculture
integrated management
watershed

Subjects

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Journal of Advanced Informatics in Water, Soil, and Structure
Volume 1, Issue 1 - Serial Number 1
January 2025
Pages 150-163

  • Receive Date 10 January 2025
  • Revise Date 12 April 2025
  • Accept Date 08 May 2025
  • First Publish Date 08 May 2025
  • Publish Date 17 May 2025