Circular economy approach to reduce Water-energy-food nexus

Abstract The increase in world population and the resulting demand for food, water, and energy are exerting increasing pressure on soil, water resources, and ecosystems. Identification of approaches to reduce the related cross-sectoral environmental impacts for the water–energy–food nexus is, therefore, crucial. The purpose of the review was to discuss the circular economy approaches devoted to understand the interdependencies among these three sectors. In particular, the review focuses on the importance of the application of life cycle thinking and life cycle assessment for understanding the interconnections in the nexus along the whole supply chains. Moreover, researches related to water and energy use in the agrifood sector are presented, addressing food waste management alternatives in a circular economy perspective.