Household systematic network analysis for achieving the food-energy-water nexus in South Africa: exploring the relationship between FEW nexus synergies and trade-offs

Network analysis, similar to the food-energy-water (FEW) nexus, facilitates the understanding of complex interdependencies and supports more effective decision-making. By mapping relationships, it identifies key nodes, vulnerabilities, and intervention points, informing improved resource management and sustainability. This study analysed data from 655 households in Amathole District Municipality, South Africa, using household systematic network analysis. The dominant FEW nexus trade-offs were labour use, transportation use, and income use. Significant positive relationships were found between transportation and income use (p = 0.361) and between income and labour (p = 0.225), while a negative relationship existed between labour and transportation use (p = 0.157). Income use exhibited the highest strength (p = 0.872) and expected influence (p = 1.117). Regarding synergies, solar energy and transportation use were dominant. Transportation (p = 0.651), water-saving techniques (p = 2.165), and solar energy pumps (p = 1.258) demonstrated strong synergies within the F-W, W-E, and F-E networks, respectively. Household systematic network analysis can enhance FEW nexus models by providing insights into synergies and trade-offs. Policymakers should prioritize income, transportation, and animal waste utilization to optimize food, energy and water resource management. Additionally, promoting solar pumps and water-saving techniques is recommended to strengthen food, energy and water security.