An integrative approach for the water-energy-food nexus in beef cattle production: A simulation of the proposed model to Brazil. (10th December 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sobrosa Neto, Ruy de Castro; Berchin, Issa Ibrahim; Magtoto, Mica; Berchin, Stephanie; Xavier, Wlamir Gonçalves; Guerra, José Baltazar Salgueirinho Osório de Andrade
• Is Part Of: Journal of cleaner production. Volume 204(2018)
• Page Start: 1108
• Page End: 1123
• Publication Date: 2018-12-10
• Subjects: Water-energy-food nexus -- Sustainability -- Beef cattle production -- Renewable energy -- Cleaner production; Factory and trade waste -- Management -- Periodicals; Manufactures -- Environmental aspects -- Periodicals; Déchets industriels -- Gestion -- Périodiques; Usines -- Aspect de l'environnement -- Périodiques; 628.5
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2018.08.200
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0959-6526

Abstract

Abstract: Global environmental and economic changes are putting pressure on natural resources with increasing demands for fresh water, energy and food (WEF). These changes aligned with the consequent change in dietary behaviors through an increased consumption of meat and a preference for sustainability standards of production, demand new technologies and techniques. Accordingly, the aim of this study is to propose a beef cattle production model based on a sustainable integrative approach to the WEF nexus, addressing water savings through rainwater collection, food production, and clean and renewable energy generation (solar cells and biodigesters). In addition, cattle are provided thermal comfort and welfare. The proposed model was tested in a beef cattle production environment and the benefits of this sustainable integrative approach were analyzed. Findings suggest that the proposed standard modules represent a strategic option for livestock producers. The use of the photovoltaic solar cells shadow improve the welfare and quality of cattle production, while generating clean and renewable energy and providing water savings.