Integrated safety assessment of water–energy–food systems based on improved substance element extensions

Abstract

To explore the integrated security of water-energy-food system, 26 indicators were selected from six aspects: water security, energy security, food security, water-energy system security, water-energy system security, energy-food system security; the frequency analysis method was used to construct the integrated security evaluation index system for water-energy-food systems. Then, the matter-element expansion model was refined and used to assess the overall security of the water, energy and food system in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region. The evaluation metrics used to assess the overall security of water, energy, and food system were examined and researched from two dimensions: time and space. This model adequately represents the overall security of the water-energy-food system, as demonstrated by empirical studies. Comparisons are made between the evaluation results of the modified model and those of the conventional matter-element inflationary model, confirming the feasibility and validity of the modified model. Finally, the main factors affecting the security of the water-energy-food system in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region are discussed using the index weight and obstacle degree model. Relevant suggestions are also provided to enhance the security of the water-energy-food system. HIGHLIGHTS This study provides a broad evaluation index system for water–energy–food (WEF) system security evaluation.; The matter-element extension model has been enhanced and applied to assess the WEF system in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region, thereby enhancing the accuracy of the evaluation outcomes.; The security of water resources system, energy system, and energy system is the key to the security of the whole system.;

Keywords

• beijing–tianjin–hebei region
• collaborative security
• improved material-element extensibility method
• space–time evolution
• water–energy–food systems