Virtual or Traditional? A Simulation-Based Question on the Water and Energy Consumption of Farming Systems in Iran

Virtual farming and traditional farming are two alternative farming systems that have different advantages and disadvantages in terms of water and energy consumption. This study aims to compare the water and energy consumption of virtual and traditional farming systems in Iran, using a simulation-based approach. The study uses a crop simulation model (APSIM) to simulate the growth and yield of four major crops (wheat, rice, sugarcane, and cotton) under different farming scenarios (baseline, virtual, traditional, and mixed). The study also uses a system dynamics model (Stella) to simulate the interactions and feedbacks among the biophysical, socio-economic, and institutional factors affecting the water and energy consumption of the farming systems. The results show that the virtual farming scenario has the lowest water consumption but the highest energy consumption among all scenarios. It also has the highest crop production and revenue due to its high productivity and efficiency. The traditional farming scenario has the lowest energy consumption but the highest water consumption among all scenarios. It also has the lowest crop production and revenue due to its low productivity and market demand. The mixed farming scenario has a balanced water and energy consumption among all scenarios. It also has a moderate crop production and revenue due to its diversity and adaptability. The baseline scenario has a high water and energy consumption among all scenarios. It also has a low crop production and revenue due to its vulnerability and inefficiency. The study concludes that virtual farming and traditional farming have different trade-offs between water and energy efficiency, environmental impact, economic viability, and social acceptability. The study suggests that a mixed farming system could be a more sustainable and resilient option for Iran’s agriculture sector.