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Jevons’ Paradox and Efficient Irrigation Technology

Author

Listed:
  • Louis Sears

    (Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA)

  • Joseph Caparelli

    (Computing and Information Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA)

  • Clouse Lee

    (Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA)

  • Devon Pan

    (College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA)

  • Gillian Strandberg

    (Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA)

  • Linh Vuu

    (Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA)

  • C. -Y. Cynthia Lin Lawell

    (Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA)

Abstract
Water is one of our world’s most essential natural resources, but it is also a resource that is becoming increasingly scarce. The agricultural use of groundwater is particularly important to manage sustainably and well. However, popular and well-intentioned water conservation and management policies, including those that encourage the adoption of more efficient irrigation technology, may have unintended and possibly perverse consequences if policy-makers do not account for water users’ behavioral responses to their policies. In particular, a Jevons’ Paradox may arise, whereby a technology that enhances the efficiency of using a natural resource does not necessarily lead to less consumption of that resource. In this paper, we discuss efficient irrigation technology, Jevons’ Paradox, and the possible perverse consequences of incentive-based programs for agricultural groundwater conservation.

Suggested Citation

  • Louis Sears & Joseph Caparelli & Clouse Lee & Devon Pan & Gillian Strandberg & Linh Vuu & C. -Y. Cynthia Lin Lawell, 2018. "Jevons’ Paradox and Efficient Irrigation Technology," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 10(5), pages 1-12, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:10:y:2018:i:5:p:1590-:d:146582
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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