Analysis of the Sustainability of Agroecosystems Based on the Water-Food-Energy Nexus Index in Wheat and Maize of North Khuzestan

Analysis of the Sustainability of Agroecosystems Based on the Water – Food - Energy Nexus Index in Wheat and Maize of North Khuzestan

Abstract
Background and objectives : Cereal production systems in Iran are often associated with high costs and low productivity. Excessive consumption and use of inputs cause irreparable damage to the environment. Efficient management is crucial for achieving sustainable performance, which is essential for current and future generations. Managing the use of water and energy for food production is a significant challenge in both developed and developing countries. This study compares the sustainability of two strategic crops, wheat and maize, in northern Khuzestan province during the 2020 - 2021 maize year.
Materials and methods : The water - food - energy nexus index (W F E N I) was used to assess the sustainability of wheat and maize. A simple random sampling method was employed, and 400 wheat and maize farmers were interviewed using a questionnaire. The water – food - energy link was analyzed by obtaining input prices through farmer interviews and internet databases.
Results : The nexus index value was 0. 160 for wheat and 0. 157 for maize. Wheat cultivation exhibited less environmental instability compared to maize. The findings indicated that the water and energy productivity for both wheat and maize is very low. Wheat production was more profitable than maize production, highlighting that maize production incurs higher environmental and economic costs. Among the six indicators investigated, the water consumption index ranked highest, while the energy economic efficiency index ranked lowest. The economic efficiency of water was calculated as 1.86E- 05 for wheat and 2.01E-06 for maize. Wheat production was found to be more favorable than maize production in terms of performance , renewability , and environmental sustainability , exerting less pressure on the environment.
Conclusion : The results of this study provide a comprehensive tool for determining appropriate strategies for cultivation patterns and water and energy resource management. By minimizing water and energy consumption and maximizing productivity, the W F E N I index can enhance farm management. This tool can monitor agricultural activities and promote sustainability by considering economic and environmental aspects. Adopting a systemic perspective on agricultural inputs can reduce production costs, increase farm- level productivity, and strengthen farmers' livelihoods, recognizing the inherent interrelation of all production factors in the agricultural system.
Keywords : Food security , Agroecosystems , Cereals , Sustainable agriculture .