The results show declines in the agricultural and industrial water footprints for these years.
The grey water footprint, which reflects environmental pollution caused by human production and consumption,
was also calculated and suggests that the shortage of water resources,
rather than water pollution, is the main problem in Beijing.
Evaluation of the virtual water trade, along with water savings in the various sectors,verified that Beijing is a net virtual water importer.
Furthermore, the water footprint shows that Beijing is advanced in water use efficiency compared to other provinces in China.
Finally, adjustments in the industrial structure,
along with virtual water importing,
should be prioritizedas water-saving strategies for Beijing.