A Conceptual Model of the Dynamics of Water-Energy-Food Nexus in Iran: A Systemic Approach

Due to the increasing demand for water, energy and food in the following decades, the pressure on these sectors will increase, hence a systemic approach to Water-Energy-Food (WEF) nexus would be of prime importance. The main objective of this study is to present a conceptual model of the nexus between water-energy-food, using a dynamic system for Iran and an analysis of the factors influencing this relationship. Towards achieving this objective, we have firstly, modeled each of the sub-sectors of water, food and energy and secondly, presented an integrated conceptual model for WEF nexus. In order to reduce the risk of energy-water-food security, these three sectors should be considered in a regulated and coordinated mechanism. The economic productivity (EP) index for the nexus in Iran is calculated for the period of 2004-2017 and its trend is analyzed. The findings of this study highlight the necessity of taking into account the linkage between water, energy and food in policy making and regulation in Iran.