Assessing the eco-efficiency improvements of Sinistra Ofanto irrigation scheme

This study investigated the options for eco-efficiency improvement of Sinistra Ofanto irrigation scheme (Apulia region, South-East Italy). The analysis was performed by using a novel multi-criteria meso-scale approach and modeling tools developed within the EcoWater project. Ecological assessment was made on the basis of the life cycle assessment using mid-point (problem-oriented) environmental impact categories, while the economic performance was measured using the total value added to the system's final products due to water use and applied management practices. The baseline analysis indicated that the upgrading of the value chain through the adoption of innovative technologies aimed at the improvement of indicators which are related to the use of non-renewable energy sources, fresh water abstraction and fertilizer application. The innovation process was driven mainly by cropping pattern and related hydrological conditions (i.e., precipitation pattern) which directly affected water and fertilizer inputs, energy consumption and corresponding gas emissions, market price of agricultural products, production costs and the level of adoption of new technologies. The eco-efficiency improvement of irrigation scheme was observed when sub-surface irrigation, solar powered pumps and smart (remote) irrigation monitoring and modeling tools were introduced, with much more tangible benefits when technologies are jointly achieved. The uptake of innovative technologies had slight to moderate potential to reduce water and energy use and, thereby, improve the environmental performance of the system while maintaining competitive agricultural economy. However, the influence on specific processes throughout the life cycle and cause-effect relationships between stages should be analyzed carefully in order to assess the rebound effect of technologies.