Coupling Efficiency Assessment of Food–Energy–Water (FEW) Nexus Based on Urban Resource Consumption towards Economic Development: The Case of Shenzhen Megacity, China

The population aggregation and economic development caused by urbanization significantly influence the efficiency of urban resource consumption. However, coupling interactions between crucial consumptions such as food, energy water (FEW) processes within highly urbanized areas has not been well-studied. In this study, we constructed an assessment framework for measurement FEW in 10 administrative districts across Shenzhen megacity during 2012–2020, based on data envelopment analysis (DEA). This study demonstrated that, from perspective nexus, increasing efficiencies consumption most improved municipal efficiency, while more than half did achieve throughout period. Concerning regional development, 80% 2020, average values which were higher Yantian, Nanshan, Luohu Dapeng, lower Baoan, Longgang Guangming, with a downtrend only being observed Guangming. Overall, value rose 35% 2012 to 2020. Correlation showed that synergistic effects efficient occurred districts, was main driving factor megacity. provides instructive insights into status suggests coordination management should be further fiscal intervention maintain limited resources available, would have valuable implications governance megacities China elsewhere.