Journal Description
Resources
Resources
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on natural resources published monthly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, ESCI (Web of Science), GeoRef, PubAg, AGRIS, RePEc, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Environmental Sciences) / CiteScore - Q1 (Nature and Landscape Conservation)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 33.4 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 4.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2024).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
3.6 (2023);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.7 (2023)
Latest Articles
PESTEL Analysis of the Photovoltaic Market in Poland—A Systematic Review of Opportunities and Threats
Resources 2024, 13(10), 136; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13100136 - 27 Sep 2024
Abstract
In recent years, Poland has implemented substantial changes to its energy mix, resulting in an increased proportion of energy production from photovoltaics (PV). However, the photovoltaic energy market’s development is determined by several factors, and still requires further analysis. Therefore, the study’s main
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In recent years, Poland has implemented substantial changes to its energy mix, resulting in an increased proportion of energy production from photovoltaics (PV). However, the photovoltaic energy market’s development is determined by several factors, and still requires further analysis. Therefore, the study’s main objective was to comprehensively understand the PV phenomenon and its development in Poland. Furthermore, a PESTEL analysis was undertaken to assess the macroeconomic context of the photovoltaic industry in Poland. A systematic literature review methodology was employed to achieve this. The study’s principal findings identified a number of pivotal opportunities and barriers to PV development. The environmental benefits of CO₂ reduction and the economic advantages, including cost savings and subsidies, were identified as significant opportunities, as were social acceptance and enhanced energy security. However, obstacles to progress include outdated grid infrastructure, high investment costs, environmental concerns during the PV lifecycle, and political uncertainties. Technical challenges like grid stability and high battery costs also impede growth. Potential strategies for improvement involve better public awareness campaigns, enhanced self-consumption through storage systems, and optimised system placement. Addressing these factors could transform current neutral aspects into either opportunities or threats for PV deployment.
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Open AccessArticle
Assessing the Impact of Aridity on Argan Trees in Morocco: Implications for Conservation in a Changing Climate
by
Chaima Afi, Maryem Telmoudi, Said Labbassi, Naima Chabbi, Jamal Hallam, Fouad Msanda and Naima Ait Aabd
Resources 2024, 13(10), 135; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13100135 - 27 Sep 2024
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Climate change, through increased aridity, threatens ecosystems, including Morocco’s endemic Argania Spinosa L. Skeels. This study assesses the impact of aridity on argan trees by analyzing morphological, ecophysiological, and biochemical parameters across various regions and comparing them with historical data. Significant variations were
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Climate change, through increased aridity, threatens ecosystems, including Morocco’s endemic Argania Spinosa L. Skeels. This study assesses the impact of aridity on argan trees by analyzing morphological, ecophysiological, and biochemical parameters across various regions and comparing them with historical data. Significant variations were observed in leaf area, leaf length, chlorophyll content, relative water content, polyphenols, flavonoids, soluble sugars, and antioxidant activity, while leaf width ratio and chlorophyll ratio remained stable. Tioughza exhibited the largest leaf area (136.07 mm2), the highest chlorophyll content (436.76 mg/m2), and superior water retention (52.27%). Conversely, Ezzaouite showed the smallest leaf area (85.76 mm2) and lowest water content (37.68%). Increased aridity has intensified these differences, revealing the argan tree’s vulnerability to climate change. The findings underscore the need for targeted conservation efforts, including reforestation, strengthened legislation, and enhanced genetic research, to sustain this vital species.
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Open AccessArticle
From Your Plate to Our Bin: Tackling Food Waste in Saudi Family Restaurants
by
Abu Elnasr E. Sobaih and Ahmed E. Abu Elnasr
Resources 2024, 13(10), 134; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13100134 - 26 Sep 2024
Abstract
This research tackled the food waste problem in Saudi Arabia, with a particular focus on family restaurants, where this issue is evident. The study adopted a semi-structured survey, including structured and open-ended questions with family restaurants’ owner–manager/managers. The results of quantitative and qualitative
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This research tackled the food waste problem in Saudi Arabia, with a particular focus on family restaurants, where this issue is evident. The study adopted a semi-structured survey, including structured and open-ended questions with family restaurants’ owner–manager/managers. The results of quantitative and qualitative data analysis showed that the most frequent types of food waste in family restaurants are starchy foods, especially bread and rice with a waste ratio above 50% of these items. Additionally, the average ratio of food waste was at least 20% of served food at sampled restaurants per customer. Three major reasons for this high rate of food waste were consumers’ behavior, e.g., positive attitude towards food waste; external factors, e.g., absence of a legal framework; and factors related to restaurants, e.g., food portion served and food cycle management. The results identified no applied strategies for handling food left over and reducing food waste at most (70%) of Saudi restaurants. This study calls for a national policy and program on managing food waste at Saudi family restaurants by adopting the 5Rs model for proper food waste management. Restaurants are encouraged to adopt green initiatives, such as “clean your plate” or “eat or waste” to stimulate their customers’ behavior for reducing their food waste and sustain the environment. This would support a green and circular economy.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Life Cycle Sustainability Analysis of Resource Recovery from Waste Management Systems in the Context of Circular Models of the Economy and the Bioeconomy)
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Open AccessArticle
Spring Water Quality in a Flood-Prone Area of Kampala City, Uganda: Insights Furnished by Sanitary and Limnochemical Data
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Ronald Tenywa, Timothy Omara, Gerald Kwikiriza, Christopher Angiro and Emmanuel Ntambi
Resources 2024, 13(10), 133; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13100133 - 25 Sep 2024
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For millennia, springs have provided water for drinking, domestic use, balneological treatment, liminality rites as well as tourist attractions. Amidst these uses, anthropogenic activities, especially urbanization and agriculture, continue to impair the functionality of springs. With the looming decadal climate change, freshwater springs
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For millennia, springs have provided water for drinking, domestic use, balneological treatment, liminality rites as well as tourist attractions. Amidst these uses, anthropogenic activities, especially urbanization and agriculture, continue to impair the functionality of springs. With the looming decadal climate change, freshwater springs could be a sustainable source of clean water for the realisation of Sustainable Development Goal 6. This paper presents the results of the sanitary inspection and assessment of limnochemical characteristics and quality of water samples (n = 64) from four freshwater springs (coded SPR1, SPR2, SPR3, and SPR4) in Kansanga, a flash flood-prone area in the African Great Lakes region of Uganda. Each sample was analysed for 17 parameters (temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, turbidity, fluorides, sulphates, chlorides, nitrates, orthophosphates, total dissolved solids, dissolved oxygen, total alkalinity, potassium, sodium, total, magnesium and calcium hardness) following the standard methods. Water quality index (WQI) was calculated to establish the quality of the water samples based on the physicochemical parameters measured. Based on the sanitary risk assessment results, the springs had medium- to high-risk scores, but most water parameters were within the WHO guidelines for potable water, except for nitrates (in SPR1 and SPR2), hardness levels (in SPR2), and dissolved oxygen (in all the samples). Sampling season and location had significant effects on the limnochemistry of the freshwater springs (p < 0.05). The water quality indices calculated indicated that the water from the springs was of good quality (WQI = 50–57), but there was a reduction in water quality during the wet season. The best water quality was recorded in samples from SPR4, followed by those for SPR3, SPR1, and SPR2. These results provide insights into the contribution of floods and poor sanitation facilities to the deterioration of spring water quality in Kansanga, and the need to leverage additional conservation strategies to support vulnerable communities in the area. Further studies are required to establish the risk posed by trace metals and microbes that may contaminate freshwater in the studied springs, especially following flood events.
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Open AccessArticle
Socioecological Resilience: Quantitative Assessment of the Impact of an Invasive Species Assemblage on a Lake Ecosystem
by
David Ricardo Pedroza-Martínez, Julio Eduardo Beltrán-Vargas and Carlos Alfonso Zafra-Mejía
Resources 2024, 13(10), 132; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13100132 - 25 Sep 2024
Abstract
An invasive assemblage refers to a group of invasive species that coexist and interact within an ecosystem, significantly altering its dynamics, biodiversity, functions, and ecosystem services. Their presence in lakes can severely affect these ecosystems. The objective of this article is to present
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An invasive assemblage refers to a group of invasive species that coexist and interact within an ecosystem, significantly altering its dynamics, biodiversity, functions, and ecosystem services. Their presence in lakes can severely affect these ecosystems. The objective of this article is to present an assessment using indexes of socioecological resilience to the impact of an assemblage of two invasive species (P. clarkii and E. crassipes) in a lake ecosystem, the Fúquene Lagoon in Colombia. Socioecological resilience indexes (rating scale: 0.0–100%) are developed based on community perception within the area of influence of the lake ecosystem under study. Indexes are developed for each dimension of analysis (ecological, social, and economic) and include a global resilience index. Community perception is obtained through a survey according to the dimensions of analysis. The results of the comprehensive assessment using the developed indexes suggest significant vulnerability of the ecological (index = 37.7%) and social (index = 40.9%) resilience of the lake ecosystem to the invasive species assemblage. The low-risk perception and limited implementation of preventive measures accentuate this fragility. Although the economic dimension shows greater robustness (index = 56.9%), it is imperative to strengthen the adaptive capacity of the socioecological system to mitigate the adverse impacts of biological invasions and ensure the sustainability of the ecosystem (global resilience index = 45%). Assessing lake ecosystems’ recovery from invasive species requires a multidimensional approach, focusing on ecological, economic, and social factors to develop integrated management strategies for resilience and sustainability.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural and Anthropogenic Conditions of Changes in the Hydrosphere)
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Open AccessSystematic Review
A Systematic Literature Review of Existing Methods and Tools for the Criticality Assessment of Raw Materials: A Focus on the Relations between the Concepts of Criticality and Environmental Sustainability
by
Daniele Perossa, Paolo Rosa and Sergio Terzi
Resources 2024, 13(9), 131; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13090131 - 18 Sep 2024
Abstract
Critical raw materials have significant economic and social impacts across numerous sectors. Numerous artifacts have been developed to assess their criticality. However, there is no univocity around the factors determining criticality. A systematic literature review was conducted to consider all academic works and
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Critical raw materials have significant economic and social impacts across numerous sectors. Numerous artifacts have been developed to assess their criticality. However, there is no univocity around the factors determining criticality. A systematic literature review was conducted to consider all academic works and official reports on criticality assessment. The review aimed to classify these artifacts to provide a clear picture of the heterogenous literature, with a focus on the relationship between criticality and environmental sustainability. Works proposing or updating criticality assessment artifacts were included according to the eligibility criteria. Academic sources were drawn from the Scopus Database in 2023. Official reports included those considered seminal by academic literature. The risk of bias in the selection and classification of the 162 works was low, as the review sought to be comprehensive. The included artifacts are systematically classified. A mapping of the identified criticality assessment tools and methods has been developed. The review found that while environmental impacts are considered in several works, the theoretical connection between criticality and environmental sustainability is weak. Three perspectives on this relationship are identified and discussed. The main limitation of this study is the inability to analyze undisclosed artifacts. It was conducted under the Horizon Europe Programme (Grant Number 101091490).
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Consideration of Critical and Strategic Raw Materials in Life Cycle Management)
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Open AccessEssay
Global Resources and Resource Justice—Reframing the Socioecological Science-to-Policy Landscape
by
Ioan Negrutiu
Resources 2024, 13(9), 130; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13090130 - 18 Sep 2024
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The lexical analysis of seminal policy-to-diplomacy documents from the socio-environmental discourse of the last fifty years of agendas has allowed examining the contextual affinities between resources, pollution, and health. The central role of resource stewardship, according to nature’s physical limits, is highlighted in
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The lexical analysis of seminal policy-to-diplomacy documents from the socio-environmental discourse of the last fifty years of agendas has allowed examining the contextual affinities between resources, pollution, and health. The central role of resource stewardship, according to nature’s physical limits, is highlighted in the context of the boundary systems for the biosphere and societies, and the carrying capacity and inclusive systemic health (one health, planetary health, …). To reframe a rather fragmented conceptual and methodological landscape, this work proposes choices that consider core values, purpose, and best practice developments, allowing us to compare the dynamics of socioecological states across the planet and in specific social, economic, political, and cultural contexts. The prioritization of resource justice and responsibility becomes a societal project, embedding the economy in social and ecological frames through institutional reframing and tangible action on resource management, pollution control, and health outcomes. How? By recognizing the primacy of the law and economy of life—the adequacy between basic needs and accessible resources for all— over the rules and economy of the market through socioecosystemic checks and balances.
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Open AccessArticle
Allometric Models of Aboveground Biomass in Mangroves Compared with Those of the Climate Action Reserve Standard Applied in the Carbon Market
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Carlos Roberto Ávila-Acosta, Marivel Domínguez-Domínguez, César Jesús Vázquez-Navarrete, Rocío Guadalupe Acosta-Pech and Pablo Martínez-Zurimendi
Resources 2024, 13(9), 129; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13090129 - 17 Sep 2024
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The standardized methods used in carbon markets require measurement of the biomass and carbon stored in trees, which can be quantified through allometric equations. The objective of this study was to analyze aboveground biomass estimates with allometric models in three mangrove species and
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The standardized methods used in carbon markets require measurement of the biomass and carbon stored in trees, which can be quantified through allometric equations. The objective of this study was to analyze aboveground biomass estimates with allometric models in three mangrove species and compare them with those used by the Climate Action Reserve (CAR) standard. The mangrove forest in Tabasco, Mexico, was certified with the Forest Protocol for Mexico Version 2.0 (FPM) of the CAR standard. Allometric equations for mangrove species were reviewed to determine the most suitable equation for the calculation of biomass. The predictions of the allometric equations of the FPM were analyzed with data from Tabasco from the National Forest and Soil Inventory 2015–2020, and the percentages of trees within the ranges of diameters of the FPM equations were determined. The FPM equations generated higher biomass values for Rhizophora mangle and lower values for Avicennia germinans than the seven equations with which they were compared. In the mangrove swamp of Ejido Úrsulo Galván, Tabasco, 81.8% of the biomass of A. germinans, 34.4% of Laguncularia racemosa and 24.0% of R. mangle were within the diameter range of the FPM equations, and in Tabasco, 28.5% of A. germinans, 16.7% of L. racemosa and 5.7% of R. mangle were within the diameter range. For A. germinans and R. mangle, we recommend using the equation that considers greater maximum diameters. The allometric equations of the FPM do not adequately predict a large percentage of the biomass.
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Open AccessArticle
Effect of Alkaline and Hydrothermal Pretreatments in Sugars and Ethanol Production from Rice Husk Waste
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José Ayala-Armijos, Byron Lapo, Carolina Beltrán, Joaquín Sigüenza, Braulio Madrid, Estefanía Chérrez, Verónica Bravo and Diana Sanmartín
Resources 2024, 13(9), 128; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13090128 - 16 Sep 2024
Abstract
This study investigates the effectiveness of hydrothermal and alkaline pretreatment methods in enhancing the concentration of fermentable sugars derived from rice husk waste. After the pretreatments, enzymatic hydrolysis and fermentation processes were executed to evaluate the ethanol production from each pretreatment. Rice husk
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This study investigates the effectiveness of hydrothermal and alkaline pretreatment methods in enhancing the concentration of fermentable sugars derived from rice husk waste. After the pretreatments, enzymatic hydrolysis and fermentation processes were executed to evaluate the ethanol production from each pretreatment. Rice husk powder measuring ≤250 µm was used. For the alkaline pretreatment, sodium hydroxide (NaOH) was used at concentrations ranging from 0.5, 1 to 1.5% w/v. The efficacy of the hydrothermal pretreatment method was evaluated after 15, 30 and 45 min at 120 °C. The enzymatic hydrolysis process was performed over 144 h at 50 °C, pH 4.8 with an enzyme loading of 30 FPU (filter paper units). Fermentation was carried out at 37 °C using a strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Hansen 1883 (NCYC 366). Results indicated that the optimal conditions for alkaline pretreatment were observed at a 1.5% NaOH, while the best hydrothermal procedure was achieved at 120 °C and 45 min. The impact of these pretreatments was assessed based on the efficiency of enzymatic hydrolysis. The alkaline pretreatment resulted in 81.70% conversion of cellulose to glucose and 96.30% conversion of hemicellulose to xylose. In contrast, the hydrothermal pretreatment achieved 93% cellulose-to-glucose conversion and 83.35% hemicellulose-to-xylose conversion. The ethanol production registered ranged from 13 to 13.23 g·L−1, corresponding to a conversion factor of 0.43 for ethanol from fermentable sugars.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Alternative Use of Biological Resources)
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Open AccessCase Report
Greenhouse Gas Emissions Associated with Tree Pruning Residues of Urban Areas of Northeast Brazil
by
Yuri Rommel Vieira Araujo, Bartolomeu Israel Souza and Monica Carvalho
Resources 2024, 13(9), 127; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13090127 - 13 Sep 2024
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There are environmental concerns (especially regarding climate change) associated with the negative effects of some pruning waste management practices. Converting urban tree waste into valuable products can help mitigate climate change, but it is important to quantify the repercussions of tree waste scenarios
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There are environmental concerns (especially regarding climate change) associated with the negative effects of some pruning waste management practices. Converting urban tree waste into valuable products can help mitigate climate change, but it is important to quantify the repercussions of tree waste scenarios in an urban context. The objective of this study was to quantify the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for six scenarios of urban pruning waste in urban areas. To this end, the life cycle assessment methodology was applied to real data obtained from five municipalities of the Paraíba state in 2012–2021 (northeast Brazil). The six scenarios were: sanitary landfill (current practice), sanitary landfill with methane capture, municipal incineration, reuse of wood, heat generation and electricity generation. Considering the 10-year period, the sanitary landfill emitted 1048 kt CO2e, and when methane was captured at the landfill, emissions decreased to 1033 kt CO2e. The lowest emissions were associated with electricity generation, with 854 kt CO2e. The municipality of João Pessoa presented the highest emissions, followed by Cabedelo, Santa Rita, Bayeux, and Conde. Transportation was responsible for the highest share of GHG emissions. Disposal of urban pruning waste at the sanitary landfill presented the highest emissions, and it has been demonstrated herein that pruning waste can be used for the production of bioenergy, with significant potential to mitigate GHG emissions at local levels.
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Open AccessArticle
Evaluating the Global Processability of Anthropogenic Metals from Mining Waste
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Qudsia Kanwal, Muhammad Saqib Akhtar and Sami G. Al-Ghamdi
Resources 2024, 13(9), 126; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13090126 - 13 Sep 2024
Abstract
Natural resource depletion and increased mining waste pose significant challenges to global sustainability efforts. This study investigates the processability of mining waste during the metal recovery stage to evaluate its potential contribution to anthropogenic circularity. The mining industry, abundant in valuable metals that
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Natural resource depletion and increased mining waste pose significant challenges to global sustainability efforts. This study investigates the processability of mining waste during the metal recovery stage to evaluate its potential contribution to anthropogenic circularity. The mining industry, abundant in valuable metals that are crucial for a carbon-neutral economy, plays a pivotal role in this context. We determine the grades of metals by looking at their chemical makeup, and then we use statistical entropy to model how easy it is to process certain waste materials. This provides us with processability measures that range from 0.19 bit to 1.18 bit. Our findings highlight that while some waste contains “abundant” metals, its complexity may diminish its economic value, raising concerns about its environmental impacts and resource availability at the end-of-life stages. Estimating potential revenue involves multiplying processed amounts by commodity prices, revealing a maximum value of 8.73 USD/metric ton for processed waste. This assessment underscores the importance of integrating circular economy principles, aiming to mitigate environmental damage and promote industrial ecology. By advancing our understanding of mining waste management through rigorous scientific inquiry, this study contributes to sustainable resource utilization strategies that are essential for future industrial practices and environmental stewardship.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mineral Resource Management 2023: Assessment, Mining and Processing)
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Open AccessArticle
Sustainable Development, Territorial Disparities in Land Resources, and Soil Degradation: A Multi-Temporal Approach
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Marco Maialetti, Luca Salvati and Francesco Maria Chelli
Resources 2024, 13(9), 125; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13090125 - 6 Sep 2024
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The present study investigates territorial disparities in selected socioeconomic forces and environmental factors underlying soil degradation that may lead to early desertification processes in a dry Mediterranean region exposed to increasing human pressure. To verify if spatial disparities in land resources have increased
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The present study investigates territorial disparities in selected socioeconomic forces and environmental factors underlying soil degradation that may lead to early desertification processes in a dry Mediterranean region exposed to increasing human pressure. To verify if spatial disparities in land resources have increased over time, a standard approach based on the Environmentally Sensitive Area Index (ESAI) was adopted to evaluate sixty years of territorial transformations in Latium, Central Italy, a region prone to intense processes of land resource depletion. The ESAI provides a standard, holistic assessment of soil degradation based on the estimation of four different ‘resource qualities’ (climate, soil, vegetation, and land use) and their change over sufficiently long time windows; in this study, the procedure was run at three reference years (1960, 1990, and 2020). The observed divergence in soil degradation levels between coastal and inland districts arose during the study period, with a consequent reduction in the local-scale variability of the ESAI. Such differential processes observed along the elevation gradient in Central Italy are likely due to anthropogenic factors affecting land use and leveraging crop intensification in flat districts and farmland abandonment in steep areas. New findings to be achieved in the context of human impacts on land resource depletion are regarded as an original contribution to the study of early desertification processes in advanced economies.
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Open AccessArticle
Assessment of the Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Capacity of Flowers, Seeds, and Seed Cake of Cactus Pear (Opuntia ficus-indica L.) and Their Application in Biscuits
by
Fatiha Brahmi, Amira Oufighou, Leila Smail-Benazzouz, Nouna Hammiche, Lydia Hassaine, Lila Boulekbache-Makhlouf, Khodir Madani and Federica Blando
Resources 2024, 13(9), 124; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13090124 - 5 Sep 2024
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Functional ingredients rich in bioactive compounds can be added to conventional ingredients for the formulation of food to increase its nutraceutical potential. Three prickly pear parts, namely flowers, seeds, and seed cake were utilized in the current work as natural antioxidant resources. The
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Functional ingredients rich in bioactive compounds can be added to conventional ingredients for the formulation of food to increase its nutraceutical potential. Three prickly pear parts, namely flowers, seeds, and seed cake were utilized in the current work as natural antioxidant resources. The flower extract gave the best amounts of antioxidants as estimated by spectrophotometric methods, which were 68.08 mg GAE/100 g DM for total phenolics; 6.91 mg QE/100 g DM for total flavonoids; 13.05 mg QE/100 g of DM for flavonols; and 0.22 mg/100 g of DM for condensed tannins. The three extracts showed a high proportion of antioxidant effect as determined by DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and TAA in vitro assays. Chemical analysis and sensory testing were performed on biscuits that were made by adding powdered flowers, seeds, or seed cake. The biscuits made from the seed cake gave a higher protein content (83.97 mg/100 g) and the biscuits made from the seeds had the best ash concentration (3.21%), while the biscuits containing flower powder had the highest anti-radical activity (81.04%). Sensory analysis disclosed the preference for biscuits formulated with flowers or seeds (80%) by the experts. These findings demonstrated that the nutritional value of the biscuits was improved by their enrichment with cactus parts powders, and they were appreciated by tasters.
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Open AccessArticle
Economic Efficiency versus Energy Efficiency of Selected Crops in EU Farms
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Paweł Boczar and Lucyna Błażejczyk-Majka
Resources 2024, 13(9), 123; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13090123 - 4 Sep 2024
Abstract
The goal of farmers operating in a market economy is to maximize profit. In view of the changing political situation, the main social interest, in addition to food security, should be energy security. Here is a refined version of that sentence: This article
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The goal of farmers operating in a market economy is to maximize profit. In view of the changing political situation, the main social interest, in addition to food security, should be energy security. Here is a refined version of that sentence: This article examines the production efficiency of selected crops grown in the EU and how well their production can ensure both the economic security of the producers, i.e., the farmers, and Europe’s energy security. In addition, it aims to determine which costs incurred in the production process have the greatest impact on productivity. The paper uses data obtained from the Cash Crop agricultural benchmarking database, covering 19 crops and 39 cost categories for each crop. The data (averaged for 2019–2021) came from 30 farms located in 11 EU member states. The DEA method and stepwise multiple regression were used. Research has shown that crops are already being grown in Europe that provide high energy efficiency in production without compromising farm performance (including oats, peas, and winter rye). Moreover, improving the involvement of certain inputs results in improved production efficiency (e.g., through spending on agricultural consulting services). In addition, crop economic efficiency, as assessed by profit with and without subsidies, was found to be strongly correlated with production efficiency. This could indicate that subsidies do not play a key role in farm efficiency within the EU. Crop productivity remains a key factor in achieving economic and energy efficiency. The significance of the findings presented in connection with the recent COVID-19 pandemic and the escalation of the armed conflict in Ukraine has led to renewed interest in EU energy security, i.e., generating as much EU energy as possible for food and non-food production.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessment and Optimization of Energy Efficiency)
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Open AccessSystematic Review
Systematic Review of the Impact of Natural Resource Management on Public Health Outcomes: Focus on Water Quality
by
Mohammed Elmadani, Evans Kasmai Kiptulon, Simon Klára and Máté Orsolya
Resources 2024, 13(9), 122; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13090122 - 30 Aug 2024
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Natural resource management (NRM) plays a pivotal role in ensuring the sustainability of ecosystems, which are essential for human health and well-being. This systematic review examines the impact of various NRM practices on water quality and their subsequent effects on public health. Specifically,
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Natural resource management (NRM) plays a pivotal role in ensuring the sustainability of ecosystems, which are essential for human health and well-being. This systematic review examines the impact of various NRM practices on water quality and their subsequent effects on public health. Specifically, it focuses on interventions such as watershed management, pollution control, land use management, water treatment, and ecosystem restoration. We conducted a comprehensive search across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, supplemented by gray literature from Google Scholar, WHO reports, and government and NGO publications, covering studies published between 2014 and 2024. A total of 42 studies met the inclusion criteria, encompassing diverse geographical regions with significant representation from developing countries. The findings indicate that effective NRM practices, particularly those aimed at reducing pollutants, managing watersheds, and promoting sustainable land use, significantly improve water quality by lowering levels of chemical contaminants, microbial pathogens, and physical pollutants. Improved water quality directly correlates with reduced incidences of waterborne diseases, chronic health conditions from long-term chemical exposure, and acute health effects from immediate pollutant exposure. The review underscores the need for tailored NRM strategies that consider local environmental and socio-economic contexts. It also highlights the importance of community involvement, regulatory frameworks, and continuous monitoring to enhance the effectiveness of NRM interventions. Despite the positive impacts, barriers such as limited financial resources, technical expertise, and community engagement pose challenges to the implementation of these practices. In conclusion, the systematic review demonstrates that comprehensive and context-specific NRM practices are crucial for improving water quality and public health outcomes. Policymakers and practitioners are encouraged to adopt integrated water resource management approaches, prioritize sustainable practices, and engage local communities to achieve long-term health and environmental benefits.
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Open AccessArticle
Exploring the Effects of Drying Method and Temperature on the Quality of Dried Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) Leaves: A Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Drying Solution
by
Farah Naz Akbar, Shahid Mahmood, Ghulam Mueen-ud-din, Muhammad Yamin and Mian Anjum Murtaza
Resources 2024, 13(9), 121; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13090121 - 30 Aug 2024
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of solar drying and oven drying methods on the quality parameters of dried basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) leaves. The dried basil leaves were dehydrated at three different levels of temperature (T1
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The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of solar drying and oven drying methods on the quality parameters of dried basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) leaves. The dried basil leaves were dehydrated at three different levels of temperature (T1, T2, and T3 = 50 °C, 55 °C, and 60 °C) using a solar tunnel dryer and an electrical oven dryer. Drying time, energy consumption, dehydration ratio, rehydration ratio, pH, and reducing sugar were observed after drying the basil leaves. The results showed that solar drying at 55 °C required the least energy (0.431 kWh) and took the shortest amount of time (110 min) to complete, whereas oven drying consumed more energy. Additionally, oven drying maintained a low pH (4.30) and reducing sugar level (2.24), extending the shelf life of the dried basil leaves, compared to solar drying. Based on energy consumption, drying time, and mineral contents, the solar drying using a solar tunnel dryer was deemed more suitable than oven drying. The best temperature for drying was determined to be 55 °C, which provided a short drying time, the least energy consumption and a statistically non-significant loss of mineral contents and dehydration ratio. Moreover, solar drying demonstrated a significantly higher speed, with a 6.7-times higher drying rate compared to oven drying, with significantly less energy consumption.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Editorial Board Members’ Collection Series – Energy Resources: Past, Present and Future Role in a Circular Economy)
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Open AccessArticle
Zai Pits as a Climate-Smart Agriculture Technique in Southern Kenya: Maize Success Is Influenced More by Manure Than Depth
by
Matthew J. Bowers, Simon Kasaine and Bruce A. Schulte
Resources 2024, 13(9), 120; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13090120 - 28 Aug 2024
Abstract
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In semi-arid southern Kenya, climate change is putting rainfed agriculture at risk with major implications for food security. The zai pit, a Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) technique, has proven to enhance yields in arid regions, but its labor demands have limited adoption rates. This
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In semi-arid southern Kenya, climate change is putting rainfed agriculture at risk with major implications for food security. The zai pit, a Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) technique, has proven to enhance yields in arid regions, but its labor demands have limited adoption rates. This study assessed how the zai pit depth and manure application within zai pits influenced maize (Zea mays) success (i.e., growth, development, and productivity). Three zai pit treatments were prepared at the Wildlife Works Research Center in southeastern Kenya: (1) deep (50 cm) with manure; (2) shallow (25 cm) with manure; and (3) deep (50 cm) without manure, and all were compared to a non-zai pit control (surface planting). Maize growth/development (e.g., height, stage, roots) and productivity (e.g., yield) measurements were taken over two growing periods. For most measures, shallow zai pits performed equally as well as deep zai pits, with both performing better than the control. Zai pits without manure performed significantly worse than zai pits with manure, oftentimes not differing from the control. Results suggest that maize success is influenced more by manure than the depth of the pit. Kenyan farmers are encouraged to dig shallower, manure-enriched zai pits to enhance food security in response to climate change.
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Open AccessArticle
The Combined Use of GIS and Generative Artificial Intelligence in Detecting Potential Geodiversity Sites and Promoting Geoheritage
by
Paweł Wolniewicz
Resources 2024, 13(9), 119; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13090119 - 27 Aug 2024
Abstract
The concept of geosites and geodiversity sites that document selected elements of geodiversity has proved to be extremely useful in the preservation and communication of the abiotic diversity of the Earth. However, the process of the designation, description, evaluation and, finally, promotion of
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The concept of geosites and geodiversity sites that document selected elements of geodiversity has proved to be extremely useful in the preservation and communication of the abiotic diversity of the Earth. However, the process of the designation, description, evaluation and, finally, promotion of geosites requires a fair amount of effort. This hinders the recognition of geosites and the development of geoparks in many areas that would otherwise benefit from their rich but undervalued abiotic environment. To rectify this, the present study introduces the use of automated geographic information system (GIS) mapping and generative artificial intelligence (GAI) for the designation and promotion of points of geological interest and potential geodiversity sites. When used effectively, these techniques permit the rapid development of geodiversity site inventories and, eventually, their dissemination to the general public and decision-makers. In this study, GAI is employed to produce diverse promotional content, both textual and visual, that facilitates geoscientific communication. A case study of an aspiring geopark located in Poland (Central Europe) is discussed, showing that GAI has the potential to enable the rapid development of easy-to-understand and diverse educational materials, limiting the amount of resources and labour required for the effective promotion of geodiversity.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geosites as Tools for the Promotion and Conservation of Geoheritage)
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Produced Water from the Oil and Gas Industry as a Resource—South Kuwait as a Case Study
by
Feras Alsalem and Thies Thiemann
Resources 2024, 13(9), 118; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13090118 - 27 Aug 2024
Abstract
Produced Water (PW) represents the largest waste stream in the oil and gas industry. As a water resource and as a source of valuable minerals such as alkali salts, it is has been highly under-valued, especially in hyper-arid regions. The beneficial use of
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Produced Water (PW) represents the largest waste stream in the oil and gas industry. As a water resource and as a source of valuable minerals such as alkali salts, it is has been highly under-valued, especially in hyper-arid regions. The beneficial use of PW ranges from water reinjection to elevated oil recovery from reservoirs with almost instantaneous returns, to the extraction of minerals from PW, which involves a number of different processes and setups. The economic value of PW-derived end products offers alternative revenue sources, with market fluctuations and conditions different from those of the hydrocarbon market. The end products of water and industrial salt support local industries such as agriculture, reflecting positively on the gross domestic product (GDP). Furthermore, resource extraction from PW of the oil and gas industry helps countries augment their circular economy. In this regard, the economic feasibility of three scenarios—the use of PW for oil recovery, the use of PW as an alternate source of water and industrial salt, and a hybrid process of both—is explored. The results show that there is great potential for water reuse in Enhanced Oil Recovery operations, as well as in the reduction in freshwater consumption for oil- and gas-extraction operations in the state of Kuwait by up to 4.8 percent when PW generated by SK oilfields is considered, and by 42 percent if PW from all oilfields in Kuwait is reused in the same manner.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Editorial Board Members' Collection Series: Water Resources)
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Resource Availability and Use in Restored, Unmanaged, and Aquaculture Mangrove Ecosystems in Indonesia
by
Coral Humber, Matthew W. Bulbert, Jessica Chavez, I Nyoman Yoga Parawangsa, Kara Majerus and Marco Campera
Resources 2024, 13(9), 117; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13090117 - 24 Aug 2024
Abstract
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Mangrove ecosystems are some of the most productive on our planet but have declined globally by 30–50%. Many species rely on mangrove habitats; thus, their conversion to aquaculture farms has led to noticeable losses in commodities such as wild fish stocks. This study
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Mangrove ecosystems are some of the most productive on our planet but have declined globally by 30–50%. Many species rely on mangrove habitats; thus, their conversion to aquaculture farms has led to noticeable losses in commodities such as wild fish stocks. This study aimed to assess the influence of aquaculture and restoration projects on the ecosystem’s ability to provide resources. We collected data on mangrove vegetation (i.e., biomass, richness, and abundance), soil nutrients (i.e., organic carbon, aluminium, and nitrogen), crab abundance, and fishing pressure at six sites. We set up 15 plots at each site and collected data between May and July 2023. Via generalised linear mixed models, we found that the abundance and richness of crabs was significantly higher in aquaculture plots than in non-aquaculture plots. Aquaculture plots had higher topsoil aluminium, higher topsoil and subsoil nitrogen, and lower topsoil carbon than non-aquaculture sites. Restored sites had less nitrogen in the topsoil than unmanaged sites. The biomass did not change between aquaculture, restored, and unmanaged plots. We found a negative correlation between crab abundance and richness and mangrove diameter at breast height (DBH), suggesting that the species of crabs present preferred areas with propagules for feeding (e.g., Grapsidae crabs). The content of nitrogen in the subsoil was positively correlated with mangrove richness, diversity, and height, suggesting the importance of nitrogen availability for mangrove growth. The content of aluminium in the subsoil was negatively correlated with the content of organic carbon in both the topsoil and subsoil, suggesting the detrimental effect of aluminium on the carbon cycle. Fishing practices were observed at all sites during the data collection period. Despite the lack of significant impact on most vegetation parameters and the limited differences between managed and unmanaged sites, key variables such as soil aluminium, carbon, and nitrogen contents and crab assemblages exhibited high variability, highlighting the complex interactions within mangrove ecosystems.
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