Promoting Sustainability: Collaborative Governance Pathways for Virtual Water Interactions and Environmental Emissions

Jiawen Yu (), Shengyang Pu (), Hui Cheng, Cai Ren, Xiaoying Lai and Aihua Long
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Jiawen Yu: Zhejiang Ecological Civilization Academy, Anji 313300, China
Shengyang Pu: Xinjiang Institute of Water Resources and Hydropower Research, Urumqi 830049, China
Hui Cheng: Yellow River Engineering Consulting Co., Ltd., Zhengzhou 450003, China
Cai Ren: College of Water Conservancy & Architectural Engineering, Shihezi University, Shihezi 832000, China
Xiaoying Lai: College of Management and Economics, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
Aihua Long: College of Management and Economics, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China

Sustainability, 2024, vol. 16, issue 21, 1-29

Abstract: This study explores the water consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the Yarkand River Basin, focusing on their dynamic interactions across industrial sectors. Utilizing environmental input–output analysis (IOA), the CROPWAT model, and life cycle assessment (LCA), we quantified the historical evolution of physical and virtual water cycles in relation to the water–carbon nexus. Our findings reveal that the planting industry, particularly the production of export-oriented, water-intensive crops like cotton, significantly contributes to both blue and green water consumption, exacerbating regional water scarcity. The persistent external market demand drives this over-extraction, further strained by the basin’s limited water retention capabilities. Although advancements have been made in reducing the per-unit water footprint of crops, total water consumption continues to rise due to agricultural expansion, intensifying pressure on blue water resources. Additionally, agricultural GHG emissions have surged, driven by increased electricity consumption, heavy fertilizer use, and escalating soil N 2 O emissions. In light of these challenges, our research underscores the critical need for integrated resource management strategies that align with sustainable development goals. By promoting efficient water allocation within the agricultural sector and diversifying crop structures downstream, we can enhance ecosystem resilience and reduce environmental degradation. Furthermore, the advancement of value-added agricultural processing and the implementation of innovative water conservation technologies are essential for fostering economic sustainability. These strategies not only mitigate the environmental impacts associated with agricultural practices but also strengthen the region’s adaptive capacity in the face of climate change and fluctuating market demands. Our findings contribute to the broader discourse on sustainable agricultural practices, emphasizing the interconnectedness of water management, climate resilience, and economic viability in arid regions.

Keywords: collaborative governance; water footprint; GHG emissions; industry sustainability; Yarkand River Basin (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
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