Journal of Food, Agriculture and Environment

Analysis of virtual water flows related to crop transfer and its effects on local water resources in Hetao irrigation district, China, from 1960 to 2008 

Author(s):

Jing Liu ^{1, 2, 3}, Pute Wu ^{1, 2, 3, 4}*, Yubao Wang ^{2, 3}, Xining Zhao ^{2, 3, 4}, Shikun Sun ^{2, 3, 4}, Xiaohong Zhang ⁵

Recieved Date: 2012-04-18, Accepted Date: 2013-01-19

Abstract:

Together with the transfer of commodities, regions trade water that is needed for the production of commodities in virtual form. This is called virtual water flow or virtual water trade. Analysis of virtual water flows could supply a better understanding of water resources problems and provide some suggestions for the improvement of water resources management. The aim of the study was to determine the virtual water flows related to regional crop transfer and its effects on local water resources in Hetao irrigation district, China, from 1960 to 2008. Results indicate that: (1) virtual water export showed an increasing trend over the study period and the multi-year average value was 2.17×10⁹ m³; (2) blue virtual water export accounted for 87.98% of virtual water export; (3) the export rate of water resources (the virtual water export related to crop transfer divided by the total water used in local area) increased from 38.51% in 1960s to 56.82% in 2000s. Results indicate that virtual water export put great pressure on local water resources and brought environmental issues to Hetao irrigation district. The government should take measures to improve both blue water (irrigation water) and green water (rain water) use efficiency to alleviate water crisis. 

Keywords:

Virtual water flows, export rate of water resources, irrigation district, China

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Journal: Journal of Food, Agriculture and Environment
Year: 2013
Volume: 11
Issue: 1
Category: Environment
Pages: 682-686

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