The energy implication of China’s food system transformation

Abstract

Food systems in developing countries are undergoing a dramatic transformation from traditional to more modernized forms. This paper examines the energy implications of the transformation of China’s food system based on a time-series multi-sectoral input–output model. Results reveal several trends. First, the estimated food-related energy consumption (excluding energy consumption related to in-home food preparation and storage) increased by 73% and 53% in total and per capita terms, respectively, between 2002 and 2012. Second, supply chain analysis shows changes in the distribution pattern of energy consumption along the supply chain; the share of farming declined, whereas the share of processing increased. Energy consumption tied to transportation grew rapidly. Third, food-related energy intensity declined during the study period. Decomposition analysis found that technological changes spurred a decline in energy intensity, whereas changes in diets increased energy intensity. Furthermore, the contribution of each supply chain stage was decomposed, and findings indicated that farming accounts for the largest contribution and packaging, storage, wholesale and retail and the food service sector (restaurants) contributed to decrease energy intensity. Processing and transportation increased energy intensity. Finally, the network analysis shows that electricity has been a major direct energy-consuming sector, of which the usage is induced by crop, fishing and aquaculture livestock, processed food and restaurant.