A multi-objective optimization decision-making methodology for fostering synergies in the water-energy-food nexus

Current decision-making methods within the water-energy-food nexus (WEFN) encounter challenges in practicality, portability, scalability, and accuracy. Optimization methods, integrating site-specific data, offer promise for achieving desired outcomes and enhancing practical decision implementation within WEFN systems. However, these methods still struggle with solving multi-objective and multi-constraint problems, poor performance, and decision-making difficulties. This study developed an optimization method for WEFN systems, which integrates an evolutionary algorithm, swarm intelligence algorithm, multistage evolutionary algorithm, and post-optimization theories to address these issues. Performance results demonstrated that the proposed algorithm outperformed traditional metaheuristic optimization algorithms. Specifically, it excelled in tackling high-dimensional constrained problems, surpassing the classical NSGA series algorithms with a 1.34-fold improvement in the comprehensive performance metric HV. Subsequently, this algorithm combined with knee point post-optimization theory was applied to a typical arid region known for food and energy production. Compared with the business-as-usual scenario, the optimized schemes enhance agricultural benefits, saving 13.3 billion m3 of water over the entire planning period. Meanwhile, sustainable energy implementation would yield potential carbon emission reduction benefits of around 2.8 billion CNY. In summary, the proposed method would successfully provide a paradigm for the synergetic decision-making of WEFN systems. [Display omitted] •The HV metric improved by approximately 1.34 times compared NSGA series algorithm.•The methodology is suit for handling multi-objective challenges within WEFN systems.•13.3 billion m3 of water would be conserved throughout the entire planning period.•Carbon benefits would reach about 2.8 billion CNY during the entire planning period.•Challenges and prospects of decision-making in the WEFN systems are highlighted.