Spatial optimization of the food, energy, and water nexus: A life cycle assessment-based approach
Journal
Energy Policy
Journal Volume
119
Pages
502-514
Date Issued
2018
Author(s)
Abstract
Since the Bonn 2011 Conference, the Food-Energy-Water (FEW) nexus has become one of the most popular global research topics. Understanding and addressing the complex interactions between the FEW components is essential for sustainable development. This study proposes an environmental impact minimization model, which considers the FEW nexus under four climate change scenarios, to optimize the spatial distribution of three energy crops (rice, corn, and sugarcane). Life cycle assessment (LCA), linear programming, and a climate change simulation model are integrated to analyze appropriate bioenergy production rates while comparing the benefits of bioenergy with the current renewable energy policy in Taiwan. The major findings of LCA in this study indicate that electricity generation using bio-coal produced from rice straw is very beneficial to the environment. Considering the spatial characteristics of Taiwan, simulations from the spatial optimization model suggested that (a) the rice and corn cultivation areas should be increased in southern Taiwan for bio-coal and bioethanol production, in accordance with the “food and feed priority policy”; and (b) the rice cultivation area should be decreased across Taiwan, based on the “water conservation policy”. In addition, compared to solar power, the development of bioenergy can simultaneously enhance food and energy self-sufficiency. © 2018
Other Subjects
Bioethanol; Climate change; Climate models; Crops; Energy policy; Environmental impact; Linear programming; Optimization; Site selection; Solar energy; Sustainable development; Water conservation; Bio-ethanol production; Climate change scenarios; Climate change simulations; Energy self-sufficiency; Life Cycle Assessment (LCA); Renewable energy policy; Spatial characteristics; Spatial optimization model; Life cycle; alternative energy; climate change; energy market; energy policy; food supply; life cycle analysis; optimization; spatial analysis; sustainable development; water supply; Taiwan; Zea mays
Publisher
Elsevier Ltd
Type
journal article