An improved fuzzy sorting algorithm coupling bi-level programming for synergetic optimization of agricultural water resources: A case study of Fujian Province, China

The uneven allocation of water resources and the shortage of regional water resources pose great challenges to the economic development and regional development balance of the Fujian province. Optimizing the water allocation structure in different regions can effectively alleviate water pressure. In this study, a type-2 fuzzy bi-level programming (T2FBL) method is proposed to plan the agricultural water resource system in the Fujian province. This method uses an improved fuzzy sorting algorithm to deal with uncertain parameters in the system and combines the bi-level programming method to balance the trade-off between two levels of decision-makers, the uncertain information contained in the secondary membership function omitted in the interval type-2 fuzzy theory is considered in the new ranking algorithm. Multiple scenarios related to different food security needs and different risk indices are examined. The major findings are as follows: (i) With an average tolerance of 75%, the average gross agricultural output value under various scenarios increased (0.4% ∼ 7%) (average 3.89%) after optimization. (ii) The regional water allocation scheme under different food demands and different water availability scenarios is calculated, and the results show that prioritizing adjustments to the industrial water distribution structure of Fuzhou and Zhangzhou will greatly relieve the water pressure in the Fujian province. (iii) The relationship between the availability of system water resources and economic benefits is given through the calculation results of the T2FBL model. These findings can provide an in-depth understanding of the interaction between agricultural, industrial and tertiary industry water allocation and provide technical support for agricultural water resource planning issues.