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The Paradox of Irrigation Efficiency
Article

The Paradox of Irrigation Efficiency

Higher efficiency rarely reduces water consumption

R. Quentin Grafton, J. Williams, C. J. Perry, F. Molle, C. Ringler, P. Steduto, B. Udall, S. A. Wheeler, Y. Wang, D. Garrick and R. G. Allen
Science, 2018
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Editorial Rating

8

Qualities

  • Analytical
  • Scientific
  • Concrete Examples

Recommendation

The impending global water crisis pits policymakers against agricultural interests in the fight for scarce resources. In this detailed article, a team of researchers explores the paradox of how “high efficiency” irrigation systems rarely save water, and can even be wasteful. They outline a number of methods such as “water accounting” and usage caps, which could mitigate misuse of fresh water for crop irrigation worldwide. The article will engage readers concerned about water conservation, and how farm irrigation can be made more efficient and sustainable.

Take-Aways

  • Irrigation accounts for 70% of fresh water usage and water managers often endeavor to conserve this valuable resource through irrigation efficiency.
  • Irrigation efficiency can employ drip, surface or sprinkler systems.
  • Solid water management decisions are hampered by inadequate or dubious estimates of water inflow and outflow to crops.

About the Authors

R. Quentin Grafton is a professor at Australian National University and Co-Chair of the ANU Water Initiative. He is Chairholder, UNESCO Chair in Water Economics and Transboundary Water Governance; Director of the Centre for Water Economics, Environment and Policy; and Convener of the Geneva Actions on Human Water Security.

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