The Food Water Energy Nexus in Agriculture: Understanding Regional Challenges and Practices to Sustainability

Ei Ngwe Zin Mai (), Norikazu Inoue and Yoshihiro Uenishi
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Ei Ngwe Zin Mai: Graduate School of Bioresource and Bioenvironmental Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
Norikazu Inoue: Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
Yoshihiro Uenishi: Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 10, 1-27

Abstract: This study explores global research trends, regional challenges, and methodological approaches in food–water–energy (FWE) nexus research within agricultural contexts from 2000 to 2024. A bibliometric analysis of 929 articles indexed in the Web of Science and Scopus was conducted. A sharp increase in research output has been observed after 2014, with the United States and China identified as dominant contributors. European countries have been recognized as key connectors in international research networks. Thematic evolution indicates a transition from foundational concepts to more advanced approaches, incorporating machine learning, optimization techniques, and circular economy strategies. Regional disparities in research capacity and thematic focus have been highlighted, influenced by differing resource constraints and socio-economic conditions. The energy dimension of the nexus has consistently been identified as a cross-cutting challenge, primarily due to increasing energy demands in agriculture. Methodological preferences have been found to vary across regions: scenario analysis is emphasized in North America, optimization models are commonly applied in East Asia, and stakeholder-centered approaches are more prevalent in developing regions. These findings suggest a need for enhanced international collaboration, greater methodological diversity, and stronger engagement with underrepresented regions, particularly South and Southeast Asia and Africa. Strengthening the FWE nexus framework through inclusive and adaptive research strategies is essential for promoting sustainable agricultural management under increasing global resource pressures.

Keywords: food–water–energy nexus; agriculture; bibliometric; preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA); regional disparities; research methodologies; sustainable development; climate impacts (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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