Pistachio Production Exacerbates Water Crisis in Arid Basins

September 10, 2026 · GıdaTarım

With rapidly increasing global consumption, pistachios, requiring 7,600 liters of irrigation water per kilogram, risk depleting groundwater resources in key production areas.

Rising Demand and the Irrigation Bill

Pistachios, with their wide range of uses from desserts to snacks, are experiencing a significant increase in global market consumption. According to industry research, the product, with its global production exceeding 1.4 million tons in 2024, brings with it substantial agricultural water consumption. Scientific studies document that more than 7,600 liters of irrigation water are spent to grow just one kilogram of pistachios. The production of the nut, which is likened to avocados in terms of its carbon footprint, in arid basins increases the pressure on water resources.

Groundwater and Soil Risks

Pistachio trees, native to Turkey and Iran, require winter chilling and hot summers for yield. In California and Iran, among the largest producing regions, increased irrigation demand leads to the uncontrolled pumping of groundwater. Due to excessive extraction, land subsidence and aquifer damage have been recorded in agricultural lands in California, while only saline water can be obtained from deep wells in Iran. This intensive production model sustained in arid geographies poses a permanent risk to water resources and agricultural basins.

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