Implementing the Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystems Nexus in irrigated areas: hints from the ERASMUS project

The Nexus concept recently emerged as a theoretical approach to natural resources management, which highlights the interconnections and interdependencies among different sectors (typically Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystems, WEFE). It is seen as an opportunity to support sustainability transitions, overcoming sectoral perspectives and conflicts that often hinder such processes. This is particularly crucial for irrigated agriculture in the Mediterranean areas, which has a central role for the socio-economic well-being but is being impacted by a multiplicity of relevant issues, such as the high demand for natural resources (water, soil, energy) and related costs in a context of limited availability. However, despite the increasing attention received in the scientific community, the Nexus concept is still limitedly implemented and operationalized.

This study, part of the ERASMUS project (Funded by the European Union—Next-Generation EU—National Recovery and Resilience Plan NRRP —MISSION 4 COMPONENT C2, INVESTIMENT N. 1.1, CALL PRIN 2022 D.D. 104 02-02-2022, Project 2022WLW9X8, Equality and Resilience of Agroecosystems through Smart water Management and Use—ERASMUS CUP N. B53D23006510006), aims at providing tools for an improved understanding of the WEFE Nexus in irrigated agroecosystems, while supporting its implementation exploring the role that innovative technologies might have.

The research employs two complementary methodologies: numerical modelling of irrigation networks and System Dynamics (SD) modelling. Numerical modelling simulates the behavior of irrigation networks under different operating scenarios, using a set of indicators to describe key system properties such as system reliability, water distribution equity, pressure deficit or excess, and water/energy use efficiency. SD modelling extends this analysis by incorporating broader system dynamics, including ecosystem and socio-economic factors represented through aggregated multidimensional indicators. Together, these approaches aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the state of irrigated systems and their potential evolution under multiple scenarios, which include the introduction of smart devices supporting network management, showing the effects they can have on system performance.

The numerical modelling approach relies also on the Rapid Appraisal Procedure, forming the basis for performance analysis through both physical and qualitative assessments. Field surveys collect data on cropping patterns and registered water volumes, which are integrated into simulation processes using Clément’s model to estimate discharge and pressure dynamics. Field calibration refines the model further, enabling detailed performance analysis at both hydrant and network levels. This structured workflow identifies critical performance gaps and inefficiencies, offering insights to optimize resource use and improve operational reliability.

The approach is being tested in two case studies in Southern Italy. A Community of Innovation has been stablished in the areas, which actively supports modelling activities, fostering stakeholder involvement and ensuring their support in understanding the potential for implementation and wider uptake of the proposed technologies.