This study applied a three-step approach, data collection and sorting, GIS-based analysis, and technical analysis to evaluate the food, water, and energy systems in Europe. It explores a FEW nexus solution based on maize, wheat, and rice production, utilizing crop residues for bioelectricity and treated wastewater for irrigation and energy generation. The study considers four sub-regions of Eastern Europe, Northern Europe, Southern Europe, and Western Europe to assess the impacts of the FEW nexus solution across the continent. Results indicate that under sub-regional maximum values of crop production, bioelectricity generation, and treated wastewater reuse, Europe could increase crop production by 62 % without expanding arable land. Bioelectricity could replace 10 % of Europe's current fossil-based electricity generation. The reuse of treated wastewater would reduce freshwater demand for irrigation in Europe by 86 %. The results highlight the potential of the FEW nexus approach to enhance sustainability and resilience in Europe's resource management.
Valenti, F., Bustamante, M., Mancuso, G., Toscano, A., Zhuang, J., Zilberman, D., et al. (2026). Exploring a food-energy-water nexus solution towards a sustainable and resilient Europe. RESOURCES, CONSERVATION AND RECYCLING, 225, 1-11 [10.1016/j.resconrec.2025.108618].
Exploring a food-energy-water nexus solution towards a sustainable and resilient Europe
Valenti F.;Mancuso G.;Toscano A.;
2026
Abstract
This study applied a three-step approach, data collection and sorting, GIS-based analysis, and technical analysis to evaluate the food, water, and energy systems in Europe. It explores a FEW nexus solution based on maize, wheat, and rice production, utilizing crop residues for bioelectricity and treated wastewater for irrigation and energy generation. The study considers four sub-regions of Eastern Europe, Northern Europe, Southern Europe, and Western Europe to assess the impacts of the FEW nexus solution across the continent. Results indicate that under sub-regional maximum values of crop production, bioelectricity generation, and treated wastewater reuse, Europe could increase crop production by 62 % without expanding arable land. Bioelectricity could replace 10 % of Europe's current fossil-based electricity generation. The reuse of treated wastewater would reduce freshwater demand for irrigation in Europe by 86 %. The results highlight the potential of the FEW nexus approach to enhance sustainability and resilience in Europe's resource management.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
