Causal linkages in the water–food–energy nexus: household-level evidence from Punjab, Pakistan

Abstract

Punjab is the most populous province of Pakistan and is on track towards water scarcity, energy crises, and food insecurity. All these challenges are interwoven and affect the potential of this region to deliver on the Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 2 (zero hunger), SDG 6 (clean water and sanitation) and SDG 7 (affordable and clean energy). The present research analyzed the causal relationships between water, food and energy resources at the household level, inquiring into the socioeconomic and environmental determinants. Based on a statistical method for sample calculation, data from 386 households were collected from Punjab Province. Three indices were used in this study, namely Water Poverty Index, Multidimensional Energy Poverty Index, and the Household Food Insecurity Access Scale. The application of Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) tested the causal links underlying these resources. The key findings revealed emerging rural–urban disparities; rural households are extremely poor in water and energy as well as simultaneously suffer from food insecurity. According to the SEM results, improving one resource will positively improve others, hence calling for a resource-based approach. The development of water infrastructural facilities, promotion of renewable energy, and improvement in agriculture practices are needed to achieve water, energy and food security and meet SDGs 2, 6, and 7.