Ecological network analysis of a metabolic urban system based on input–output tables: Model development and case study for the city of Vienna

The rapid economic growth accompanied by health concerns and other global environmental problems in cities regions has boosted the popularity of ‘urban metabolism’ topic among academics policymakers. Currently, 56.2% world's population lives cities, accounting for 80% GDP. It is projected that current trend world complemented migration will continue affecting resource production consumption impact this on urban areas. Here, we developed a new model approach combines emergy input-output tables with ecological network analysis to investigate metabolism generally, applied it Vienna, Austria. This novel allows researchers study hierarchy sectors functional relationships along all possible metabolic paths socio-economic flows exchanging an economy between its environment. Then, using system-level analyses (flow contribution analyses) determined status system components. Finally, critical components responsible (distribution structure each industry) were identified pairwise control utility analyses. results showed “agriculture, forestry fishing” “mining quarrying” had lowest ability receive financial inputs from sectors, reflecting shortage agricultural mining products meet consumers' demand. Moreover, highest energy dependence indicating lack self-sufficiency use inability sector deliver effectively consuming sectors. also implies importance achieving efficiency improvement development goals consumer cities. work contributes existing literature via introduction two-step diagnosis low activity taken traditional identification behind In addition, direct indirect control, introduced relational interactions explored inner workings service part reveal role tertiary plays primary secondary economy. provide support city managers policymakers guide towards efficient sustainable worldwide.