Guidance on realizing real water savings with crop water productivity interventions: an action framework for agriculture and food security

The FAO Water Report "Guidance on realizing real water savings with crop water productivity interventions" provides practical guidelines for implementing real water savings in agriculture through interventions enhancing crop water productivity. It emphasizes the distinction between real and apparent water savings and highlights the paradox of water savings at field and basin scales. By following these concepts and guidelines, decision-makers can improve water system management and achieve sustainable water savings.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 60 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2021
Publisher: Food & Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)

The recently released FAO Water Report, titled "Guidance on realizing real water savings with crop water productivity interventions," provides comprehensive and actionable guidelines for implementing tangible water savings in agriculture through targeted interventions aimed at enhancing crop water productivity. This report distinguishes between two types of water savings: real water savings and apparent water savings. Apparent water savings refer to reductions in water withdrawals, but they do not consider changes in water consumption. On the other hand, real water savings encompass reductions in both water consumption and non-recoverable return flows, such as runoff or percolation.

This guidance document highlights a crucial paradox: while water savings at field and basin scales may be achieved, they often do not result in increased water availability for other users, as commonly assumed. To address this challenge, decision-makers are encouraged to adopt the concepts and guidelines presented in this report. By implementing sustainable interventions, they can improve the management of their water systems and achieve real water savings, contributing to the sustainability of agricultural practices and the overall water resource management.

The report begins by providing an overview of the importance of water in agriculture and the challenges faced by farmers in achieving sustainable water use. It then delves into the concept of crop water productivity, which refers to the maximum amount of crop yield achievable with a given amount of water. The report explains how interventions for enhancing crop water productivity can lead to real water savings.

One of the key strategies discussed in the report is the implementation of precision agriculture technologies, such as soil moisture sensors, weather monitoring systems, and irrigation management software. These technologies enable farmers to optimize water application, reducing waste and maximizing crop water use efficiency. The report also emphasizes the importance of crop selection and planting practices, as well as the use of water-saving irrigation techniques, such as drip irrigation and micro-irrigation.

In addition to technological interventions, the report also highlights the role of policy and institutional frameworks in promoting real water savings. It suggests that governments, farmers' organizations, and other stakeholders should work together to develop and implement policies that encourage sustainable water use practices, such as water pricing, water conservation incentives, and regulations on water use.

The report also addresses the issue of water scarcity and the need for sustainable water management practices. It emphasizes the importance of reducing water waste, improving water efficiency, and protecting water resources for future generations. The report provides examples of successful water management practices in different regions and sectors, showcasing the potential for achieving real water savings and promoting sustainable agriculture.

In conclusion, the FAO Water Report "Guidance on realizing real water savings with crop water productivity interventions" is a valuable resource for decision-makers, farmers, and other stakeholders interested in achieving sustainable water use in agriculture. By adopting the concepts and guidelines presented in this report, we can contribute to the preservation of water resources, promote sustainable agricultural practices, and ensure food security for a growing population.

Dimension: 300 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789251341360