Review of hydro-economic models to address river basin management problems: structure, applications and research gaps.
Citation:
Bekchanov, M.; Sood, A.; Jeuland, M. 2015. Review of hydro-economic models to address river basin management problems: structure, applications and research gaps. Colombo, Sri Lanka: International Water Management Institute (IWMI). 60p. (IWMI Working Paper 167). [doi: 10.5337/2015.218]
Abstract
Efficient use of water resources is gaining priority in global development policy debates due to the increasing demand for water from agriculture, industry, energy production and ecosystem services. This study systematically reviews the recent hydro-economic modeling (HEM) literature to characterize the relevance of HEM tools for analyzing problems of water resources planning and management. The review considers both basin-wide (simulation and optimization) and economy-wide (input-output and computable general equilibrium) models. The review is helpful for organizing (a) model features and structure, (b) common themes and scenarios found in HEM applications, (c) typical indicators for reporting results, and (d) geographic coverage. The review closes with a summary of potential new directions that would make these tools even more relevant for improved water management policy analysis.
ISSN 2012-5763
e-ISSN 2478-1134
ISBN 978-92-9090-826-5
Download PDF 1.61 MB








Population pressure and increasing water competition in a changing climate require us to take stock of the availability and use of water across scales. Water availability not only influences farmers’ commercial prospects but also irrigation-related enterprises and agri-businesses. Greater water scarcity could jeopardize irrigation and agricultural markets while excessive water use can lead to declining ecosystems, water quality and soil health. IWMI advises development partners and the public and private sectors on all aspects of water resource availability and use through a variety of advanced modeling and remote-sensing products and tools, including
The ability of farmers to engage in or expand irrigation depends on the prevailing socioeconomic, ecological and political contexts, which are often complex, non-linear and changeable. Overcoming systemic barriers to farmer-led irrigation development while taking advantage of existing opportunities
A lack of affordable credit, particularly for women and resource-poor farmers, is one of the main barriers to expanding farmer-led irrigation in low- and middle-income countries. But
Scaling farmer-led irrigation requires strengthening human capacity and knowledge exchange among all actors and stakeholders involved. IWMI takes an action research approach, working with national and international research institutions, governments, extension agents and public and private organizations to co-develop the scaling ecosystem and strengthen capacity to drive scaling networks and collective action. We support the