Examining the Nexus of Food and Water Security Components in the Agricultural Sector

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Department of Agricultural Management and Development, Faculty of Agricultural Economics and Development, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran.

10.22059/jwim.2025.385441.1189

Abstract

Food insecurity is a major global development challenge, requiring investment in agriculture, poverty reduction, and conservation of natural resources to ensure universal access to food. This study aimed to identify and analyze the linkages between key food and water security components. The target population included experts in food and water security, particularly faculty members and practitioners, with 15 participants selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a questionnaire, validated by agricultural management and development experts at the University of Tehran, and its reliability was confirmed by Cronbach alpha coefficient. The DEMATEL technique was used for data analysis. Results revealed that the sustainability of water access had the greatest impact on other water and food security components, while food consumption had the least influence. Food availability was identified as the most influenced component, Economic access to water was the least influenced. The sustainability of food access was highlighted as the most critical factor for improving food security. The study emphasizes sustainable natural resource management, investment in innovative technologies, and increased resilience to climate change to enhance water and food security. Additionally, economic policies should be designed to improve the economic capacity for water and food access, particularly for low-income groups. These measures can foster more sustainable and equitable systems in water and food security.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Water and Irrigation Management
Volume 15, Issue 4
March 2026
Pages 787-804

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