Regional Analysis of Virtual Water Flow in View of Crop Consumption

Abstract

AbstractIt is important to identify virtual water for crop production (Pvw) and consumption (Cvw) and to analyse the virtual water flow among regions for a better understanding of water resource use. The estimation of virtual water flow in a basin or between regions of a basin can contribute to finding options for water‐saving strategies, such as changing cropping pattern and land use. The objective of this study was to analyse virtual water flow by using Pvw, Cvw and virtual water content (VWC). VWC of a product is the amount of fresh water required to produce the product, expressed as m3 t−1. The virtual water consumption rate in this study is defined as Cvw/Pvw, which indicates the extent of water shortage and self‐sufficiency of water use in a region. The Cvw and Pvw of 16 regions were computed and the virtual water flow in the Han and Nakdong River basins was analysed. The analysis indicated that a shift of rice cultivation between the upper and the lower regions of these basins can save between 503 and 752 Mm3 of VW in ideal conditions. Virtual water analysis can be useful for finding solutions to improve water productivity at basin level and to reduce pressure on local water resources. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.