A Resource Nexus Analysis Methodology for Quantifying Synergies and Trade-Offs in the Agricultural Sector and Revealing Implications of a Legume Production Paradigm Shift

Abstract

Resource management in the sustainability context has increasingly been a key object that makes the application of holistic approaches an imperative need. The water–energy–food nexus concept offers tools for such system analysis in an integrated manner, through the identification and quantification of synergies and trade-offs. The agricultural sector often constitutes one of the main resource depletion hotspots. In this article, a nexus assessment methodological approach is developed for an agricultural context. Water, energy, food, land uses, and greenhouse gas emissions are perceived as nexus components. The methodology considers resource uses within and outside the biogeographical system boundaries, interpreting them as direct and indirect interlinkages. The methodology is validated on an actual case study, in Thessaly, Central Greece. Four nexus indicators are introduced to assess the impact of different land use planning scenarios. Legume production, which has been considered as a relatively beneficial land use among other crop choices, is tested against the four nexus indicators. Multiple advantages of such a land use paradigm shift are revealed, specific to the directions of food security, energy security, and economic sustainability.