ASSESSING THE SUSTAINABILITY OF CROP PRODUCTION IN THE GEDIZ BASIN, TURKEY: A WATER, ENERGY, AND FOOD NEXUS APPROACH

摘要

This study assesses the sustainability of crop production system in Gediz Basin, Turkey and develops forward-looking scenarios for optimal utilization and sustainable allocation of its resources using the water, energy, and food (WEF) Nexus holistic systems approach. Gediz basin data for the year 2014 are used to analyze the current situation and to develop future scenarios, including climate change, urbanization, changes in water sources, and technological developments in the field of agricultural production. The study results indicate that reduction in land availability as a consequence of urbanization and increased water scarcity due to climate change are inevitable. Moreover, sustainably maintaining current levels of agricultural production requires that serious consideration be given to the selection of drought resistant varieties and new farming practices, such as direct planting to reduce energy use and drip irrigation systems to save water.