Evolutionary game analysis of water-saving behavior of energy enterprises and food producers from the perspective of water-energy-food nexus

Water resources are not only the essential natural resources for the national economy and people's livelihood but also are the strategic economic resources for the safe production of energy and food. However, the shortage of water resources caused by extreme climate is a great challenge to energy enterprises and food producers. According to the game theory and the theory of economic development stage, this paper constructs an evolutionary game model for local governments, energy enterprises, and food producers. Further, it analyzes the evolutionary stability strategies of the game players at different development stages through simulations. The results indicate that: (1) the game players have different strategies of evolutionary stability at different development stages, while local governments adopting water-saving policies will promote the water-saving behavior of energy enterprises and food producers; (2) the choice of water-saving behavior of energy enterprises and food producers mainly depends on the water-saving costs; (3) the guidance of the government and the management of water-saving cost make the large water consumers realize the transformation from the 'competition of water-consuming' to the 'cooperation of water-saving.' According to the above analysis, many political recommendations are further put forward.

Automated summary

Water resources are crucial for the national economy, livelihood, and safe production of energy and food. However, climate-induced water scarcity poses a significant challenge to energy enterprises and food producers. This paper utilizes game theory to construct an evolution game model for local governments, energy enterprises, and food producers, analyzing their evolutionary stability strategies at different stages of development. The results highlight the importance of water-saving policies implemented by local governments in promoting water-saving behavior among energy enterprises and food producers. Additionally, the study reveals that the decision to adopt water-saving behavior is primarily influenced by the cost considerations. By guiding and managing water-saving costs, the government can facilitate a transition from water consumption competition to water-saving cooperation among major water consumers. Based on these findings, the paper puts forward various political recommendations.