Optimizing Agricultural Water Productivity for Food Security Under Climate Change: Evidence from Algeria

Abstract

Abstract Aim Agricultural water productivity is a critical determinant of food security in arid and semi-arid countries such as Algeria, where climate change is intensifying water scarcity and pressure on irrigation-dependent agriculture. This study assesses the current state of agricultural water productivity in Algeria and examines its potential as a demand-management instrument to strengthen national food security under climate stress. Material and methods This study employs a quantitative and qualitative desk-research approach using secondary data for the period 2016–2022 from Arab Organization for Agricultural Development and Algerian national reports, complemented by demographic projections to 2050 (Population Reference Bureau) and national water-resource indicators (FAOSTAT, AQUASTAT). The analysis applies biophysical water productivity (BWP) metrics, and quantifies the water footprint (WF, m3/kg) by distinguishing blue and green components based on Mekonnen and Hoekstra’s datasets. It also estimates imported virtual water embodied in food imports to capture external water dependence, and benchmarks Algeria’s performance against global reference levels, supported by a policy-oriented interpretive assessment. Results Water productivity for major food products, especially cereals, remains overall below international benchmarks, indicating substantial scope for efficiency gains across commodities. Reliance on imported virtual water for strategic commodities increases exposure to external water resources through trade. Limited modern irrigation uptake, continued traditional surface irrigation, and persistent agronomic and farmer-training gaps constrain output and heighten vulnerability to climate-induced stress. Conclusions Improving agricultural water productivity is essential for reinforcing Algeria’s long-term food security. A coordinated strategy integrating technological modernization, capacity building, and supportive policy reforms can reduce water-scarcity pressures and strengthen climate resilience by prioritizing “more crop per drop” as a national objective.