An integrated biophysical-ecological assessment of embedded virtual water flows linked to Israel's consumption of agricultural crops

As populations and affluence grows, increased demand for food drives a concomitant increase in associated water scarcity. A relative and absolute increase in crop-embodied virtual water traded between countries is a geopolitically important component of this scarcity. In addition to biophysical dimensions, blue water consumption can have varying impacts on humans and biodiversity. This study focuses on virtual water trade relating to consumption of crops and crop products, and its related socio-ecological impacts, in a water scarce country with high reliance on virtual water, Israel. The results of two established methodologies are assessed, in calculating consumption associated with the virtual water trade of up to 100 crops. Using virtual water quantifications from the methodology with higher spatial resolution, together with two complementary sets of characterisation factors from life cycle impact assessment methodologies (water scarcity indices and potential disappeared fractions) a novel comparison of impacts on ecosystems relating to loss of species and water denial is facilitated. As an additional impact indicator, groundwater depletion is calculated for the virtual water trade of a narrower set of crops. Israel's crop production was found to be associated with outsized cumulative blue water consumption volumes, relative to imports. In addition, regional and country hotspots of blue water consumption, groundwater depletion, downstream user impact and biodiversity loss were identified, including in India, The United States, and the Mediterranean region. Several limitations and suggestions for future application are discussed.