Work

Decoupling Water Consumption from Economic Growth in Inner Mongolia, China

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Using economic and water consumption data from Inner Mongolia and its 12 cities (2004–2023), this study employs the Tapio decoupling model to investigate the relationship between water consumption and economic growth. The results show a general shift from weak to strong decoupling across the region, with extreme events such as the 2020–2021 pandemic period (decoupling index, DI = 10.31) causing clear disruptions. Regional disparities followed a triple pattern: industrial areas (e.g., Ordos, Baotou) achieved strong decoupling via innovation; agricultural regions (e.g., Tongliao, Bayannur) remained in weak negative decoupling modes due to rigid water demand; and ecologically vulnerable areas (e.g., Alxa League, Xilin Gol) saw high volatility and unsustainable policy effects. Our interpretation of the three patterns highlights the need for region-specific governance. The driving mechanisms mainly include uneven adoption of water-saving technology (e.g., low drip irrigation rates in agriculture), virtual water trade shifting pressures across regions, and climate extremes worsening imbalances. Based on these findings, we recommend differentiated subsidies, regional compensation mechanisms, and adaptive policies to support sustainable water–economy coordination in arid regions.

Source: Water

DOI: 10.3390/w17213073

Authors: Danjun Wang, Yunqi Zhou, Fengwei Wang

Institutions: Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, University of Bristol, Tongji University

Language: English

Topic: Water Resources and Sustainability

Subfield: Water Science and Technology

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Clean water and sanitation, Reduced inequalities, Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137