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Utilizing Circular Economy Policies to Maintain and Transform Mining Facilities: A Case Study of Brzeszcze, Poland
Sustainability and Environmental Performance in Selective Collection of Residual Materials: Impact of Modulating Citizen Participation Through Policy and Incentive Implementation
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
Sustainable Development, Territorial Disparities in Land Resources, and Soil Degradation: A Multi-Temporal Approach
Nutritive Valorisation of Banana Tree (Musa acuminata) By-Products with Different Levels of Sodium Hydroxide

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)

Imprint Information Journal Flyer Open Access ISSN: 2079-9276

Latest Articles

22 pages, 2134 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Unlocking Economic and Environmental Gains Through Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling for Electric Vehicles

by Bianca Ifeoma Chigbu and Ikechukwu Umejesi

Resources 2024, 13(12), 163; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13120163 - 21 Nov 2024

Amid South Africa’s shift towards electric vehicles (EVs), building a lithium-ion battery (LIB) recycling sector is essential for promoting sustainable development and generating employment opportunities. This study employs qualitative methodologies to collect insights from 12 critical stakeholders in the automotive, mining, and recycling [...] Read more.

Amid South Africa’s shift towards electric vehicles (EVs), building a lithium-ion battery (LIB) recycling sector is essential for promoting sustainable development and generating employment opportunities. This study employs qualitative methodologies to collect insights from 12 critical stakeholders in the automotive, mining, and recycling sectors and academia to examine the feasibility and advantages of establishing such an industry. We implemented purposeful and snowball sampling to guarantee an exhaustive array of viewpoints. Thematic analysis of the interview data reveals that LIB recycling has substantial social, environmental, and economic implications. The results emphasize the pressing necessity of recycling infrastructure to mitigate environmental impacts and attract investment. The economic feasibility and employment potential of LIB recycling is promising despite the early stage of the EV industry in South Africa. These potentials are influenced by EV adoption rates, technological advancements, regulatory frameworks, and industry growth. In this sector, employment opportunities are available in various phases: battery collection, transportation, disassembly, testing, mechanical crushing, hydrometallurgical processes, valuable metal recovery, manufacturing, reuse, research and development, and administrative roles. Each of these roles necessitates a unique set of skills. This interdisciplinary research investigates vital elements of economic growth, employment creation, environmental sustainability, policymaking, technological innovation, and global collaboration. The study offers valuable guidance to policymakers and industry stakeholders trying to establish a sustainable and robust LIB recycling industry in South Africa by utilizing Transition Management Theory to develop a framework for improving the sustainability and circularity of the EV LIB recycling sector. Full article

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14 pages, 3206 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Carbon Footprint of Additively Manufactured Precious Metals Products

by Mario Schmidt, Jochen Heinrich and Ingwar Huensche

Resources 2024, 13(11), 162; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13110162 - 20 Nov 2024

Traditionally, precious metals are processed by either lost-wax casting or the casting of semi-finished products followed by cold or hot working, machining, and surface finishing. Long process chains usually conclude in a high material input factor and a significant amount of new scrap [...] Read more.

Traditionally, precious metals are processed by either lost-wax casting or the casting of semi-finished products followed by cold or hot working, machining, and surface finishing. Long process chains usually conclude in a high material input factor and a significant amount of new scrap to be refined. The maturing of Additive Manufacturing (AM) technologies is advantageous with regard to resources among other criteria by opening up new processing techniques like laser-based powder bed fusion (LPBF) for the production of near net shape metal products. This paper gives an insight into major advantages of the powder-based manufacturing of precious metal components over conventional methods focusing on product carbon footprints (PCF). Material Flow Cost Accounting (MFCA) for selected applications show energy and mass flows and inefficient recoverable losses in detail. An extended MFCA approach also shows the greenhouse gas (GHG) savings from avoiding recoverable material losses and provides PCF for the products. The PCF of the precious metals used is based on a detailed Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of the refining process of end-of-use precious metals. In the best case, the refining of platinum from end-of-life recycling, for example, causes 60 kg CO_2e per kg of platinum. This study reveals recommended actions for improvements in efficiency and gives guidance for a more sustainable production of luxury or technical goods made from precious metals. This exemplary study on the basis of an industrial application shows that the use of AM leads to a carbon footprint of 2.23 kg CO_2e per piece in comparison with 3.17 kg CO_2e by conventional manufacturing, which means about a 30 percent reduction in GHG emissions and also in energy, respectively. Full article

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17 pages, 538 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dynamics of Amaranthus in Urban and Rural Value Chains in Communities of KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa

by Ruth N. Olusanya, Unathi Kolanisi, Nomali Z. Ngobese and Chinsamy Mayashree

Resources 2024, 13(11), 161; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13110161 - 15 Nov 2024

Sub-Saharan Africa falls among the developing countries with poor standards of living contributing to the high prevalence of malnutrition. Interventions have been conducted, but malnutrition continues to linger, with devastating impacts on vulnerable groups. In Africa, 90% of its children cannot access the [...] Read more.

Sub-Saharan Africa falls among the developing countries with poor standards of living contributing to the high prevalence of malnutrition. Interventions have been conducted, but malnutrition continues to linger, with devastating impacts on vulnerable groups. In Africa, 90% of its children cannot access the minimum balanced diet. Also, 60% of the people in this region do not access daily meals for dietary needs. Traditional vegetables like Amaranthus are identified to have great potential to combat malnutrition; however, Amaranthus is underutilized due to limited awareness of its potential and poor post-harvest practices along the value chain. This study evaluates the dynamics of Amaranthus along its value chain in the urban and rural communities of KwaZulu-Natal. South Africa. Mixed-design research and a purposive convenient random sampling approach were explored. Semi-structured questionnaires were used to collect data for the survey, and this was strengthened by a series of five n = (30) face-to-face interviews with six key informants from urban and rural formal and informal markets. The findings revealed that eleven species of Amaranthus have been identified in South Africa such as Amaranthus spinosus varieties, including A. dubius, and A. cruentus, which are the most sold and consumed, mostly being sold by street vendors. Thus, poor perception and attitudes along with limited access to Amaranthus in some upper-class markets contribute to underutilization. Promoting Amaranthus at all levels of markets might create better awareness of its utilization. Full article

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19 pages, 9747 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Microfluidic Study of Application of Nanosuspension with Aluminum Oxide Nanofibers to Enhance Oil Recovery Factor During Reservoir Flooding

by Andrey Pryazhnikov, Vladimir Zhigarev, Maxim Pryazhnikov and Andrey Minakov

Resources 2024, 13(11), 160; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13110160 - 13 Nov 2024

The paper presents the results of a comparative microfluidic study of the oil displacement process from a microfluidic chip simulating rock. Suspensions of spherical nanoparticles of silicon oxide (22 nm) and aluminum oxide (11 nm), as well as aluminum oxide nanofibers (8.7 nm [...] Read more.

The paper presents the results of a comparative microfluidic study of the oil displacement process from a microfluidic chip simulating rock. Suspensions of spherical nanoparticles of silicon oxide (22 nm) and aluminum oxide (11 nm), as well as aluminum oxide nanofibers (8.7 nm in diameter and with an aspect ratio of 58), were used as displacing liquids. The nanofibers represent a unique new-generation crystalline material with a high aspect ratio. This work presents the first consideration of the use of aluminum oxide nanofibers as an additive for enhanced oil recovery. The comparative analysis has demonstrated that the addition of nanofibers can markedly enhance the oil recovery factor relative to the addition of spherical nanoparticles, other things being equal. Thus, in particular, it was demonstrated that the addition of nanofibers into the system allows for the greatest enhancement of the oil recovery factor, reaching a value of 25%, whereas the addition of spherical nanoparticles results in a maximum increment of approximately 10%. This is due to the fact that nanofiber additives have a tenfold stronger effect on the viscosity of nanosuspensions compared to similar additives of spherical particles. Nanosuspensions of aluminum oxide nanofibers exhibit non-Newtonian behavior at low concentrations. This opens the possibility of their extensive use in enhanced oil recovery. Full article

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14 pages, 4848 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Water Quality of Rainwater Harvesting Systems and Acceptance of Their Reuse in Young Users: An Exploratory Approach

by Pablo Vidal, Ana María Leiva, Gloria Gómez, Marcela Salgado and Gladys Vidal

Resources 2024, 13(11), 159; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13110159 - 12 Nov 2024

The main objective of this study is to evaluate the water quality of different rainwater harvesting (RWH) systems and the social acceptance of their reuse in young users as an exploratory approach. Three RWH systems were implemented, and the quality of harvested rainwater [...] Read more.

The main objective of this study is to evaluate the water quality of different rainwater harvesting (RWH) systems and the social acceptance of their reuse in young users as an exploratory approach. Three RWH systems were implemented, and the quality of harvested rainwater was evaluated focusing on physicochemical and in situ parameters. Social acceptance was studied in one of the RWH systems using an adapted technology acceptance model. An informative talk about the operation of RWH was given to the users, who were students from a rural primary school. Surveys were conducted before and after the talk to evaluate the impact of providing information to users. The social acceptance was studied in one of the RWH systems. The results indicated that the harvested rainwater from RWH systems was suitable for reuse in agriculture despite the increase in turbidity and chloride concentrations in the outlet tap. The concentration of turbidity, phosphate as phosphorus, chloride and nitrate ranged between 0.8 and 1.9 NTU, 0.01–0.2 mg/L, 2.8–5.0 mg/L and 0.3–0.9 mg/L, respectively. In the acceptance study, the survey results and correlation analyses showed that providing information to users is crucial for increasing the acceptance of RWH systems. Moreover, this study demonstrated that RWH systems are a viable alternative technology for reusing and supplying water in arid and semiarid areas. Full article

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16 pages, 1217 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Developing Guidelines for Azolla microphylla Production as Compost for Sustainable Agriculture

by Ornprapa Thepsilvisut, Nuengruethai Srikan, Preuk Chutimanukul, Rusama Marubodee and Hiroshi Ehara

Resources 2024, 13(11), 158; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13110158 - 8 Nov 2024

Azolla is a substitute compost that has the potential to enhance nutrient cycling in agricultural systems for sustainable development. In this study, four experiments were conducted to compare the Department of Agriculture (DOA, Thailand)’s methodology for determining the suitable type and rate of [...] Read more.

Azolla is a substitute compost that has the potential to enhance nutrient cycling in agricultural systems for sustainable development. In this study, four experiments were conducted to compare the Department of Agriculture (DOA, Thailand)’s methodology for determining the suitable type and rate of animal manure and the optimal light intensity for the growth and yield of Azolla (Azolla microphylla). The results revealed that applying 100% pig manure gave the highest yield of Azolla compared to the other manures. However, there was no discernible (p > 0.05) difference in yield across the various doses (20.16, 30.16, and 40.16 gN m⁻²) of pig manure treatments, for which the minimal pig manure dosage of 20.16 gN m⁻² was chosen. For further experimentation in the optimal light intensity, the 40% shading gave the highest yield of Azolla compared to no shading or 20 and 60% shading (p ≤ 0.01). When compared with the DOA Thailand methodology (1.27 kg m⁻² of cow manure and covered with a size 32 mesh net), the findings indicated that the modified method (20.16 gN m⁻² of pig manure + 40% shading) gave a 16% greater Azolla yield than that under the DOA Thailand methodology. The current finding method can produce a monthly fresh biomass of A. microphylla of 40.7 t ha⁻¹ year⁻¹ with higher contents of total N (4.92%) and lower C:N ratio (≤10:1) that could release minerals relatively rapidly. Its use can be encouraged by farmers to produce their own ecofriendly biofertilizer or soil amendment for sustainable agriculture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Zero Hunger: Health, Production, Economics and Sustainability)

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16 pages, 4330 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Multiobjective Optimisation of Flotation Variables Using Controlled-NSGA-II and Paretosearch

by Bismark Amankwaa-Kyeremeh, Conor McCamley, Kathy Ehrig and Richmond K. Asamoah

Resources 2024, 13(11), 157; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13110157 - 7 Nov 2024

Finding the optimum operating points for the maximisation of flotation recovery and concentrate grade can be a very difficult task, owing to the inverse relationship that exists between these two key performance indicators. For this reason, techniques that can accurately find the trade-off [...] Read more.

Finding the optimum operating points for the maximisation of flotation recovery and concentrate grade can be a very difficult task, owing to the inverse relationship that exists between these two key performance indicators. For this reason, techniques that can accurately find the trade-off are critical for flotation process optimisation. This work extracted well-assessed Gaussian process predictive functions as objective functions for a comparative multiobjective optimisation study using the paretosearch algorithm (PA) and the controlled elitist non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm (controlled-NSGA-II). The main aim was the concomitant maximisation of the copper recovery and the concentrate grade. Comparison of the two applied techniques revealed that the PA discovered the best set of the pareto-optimal solution for both the recovery (93.4%) and concentrate-grade (17.4 wt.%) maximisation. Full article

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18 pages, 3844 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Apple Pomace Integrated Biorefinery for Biofuels Production: A Techno-Economic and Environmental Sustainability Analysis

by Ricardo Rebolledo-Leiva, Sofía Estévez, Diógenes Hernández, Gumersindo Feijoo, María Teresa Moreira and Sara González-García

Resources 2024, 13(11), 156; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13110156 - 7 Nov 2024

The combination of techno-economic process modelling and life cycle assessment is an integrated methodology that addresses quantitative operational data, and evaluates the emissions associated with any process under development. In particular, the valorisation of waste streams within the context of the circular economy [...] Read more.

The combination of techno-economic process modelling and life cycle assessment is an integrated methodology that addresses quantitative operational data, and evaluates the emissions associated with any process under development. In particular, the valorisation of waste streams within the context of the circular economy could be considered a valid and promising approach, especially regarding techno-economic and environmental indicators. This manuscript aims to evaluate the integral valorisation of apple pomace from the processing industry into bioethanol, and vinasses (a byproduct of the distillation process) into biogas and digestate as biofertiliser. In addition to biogas production, lagooning and composting were considered as strategies for vinasse management. After the conceptual design of the process options was completed, the environmental profile of bioethanol production was estimated across different scenarios. When biogas production was integrated to reduce the biorefinery’s energy demand, the carbon footprint was 1.13 kg CO₂eq∙kg⁻¹. This footprint increased to values around four when lagooning and composting were used as vinasse management strategies. Although the economic dimension posed a significant limitation due to high investment costs, the eco-efficiency analysis showed that the scenario of the co-production of bioethanol and biogas is the best alternative. Despite the promising results, further research is needed to explore the recovery of additional co-products to develop a high-potential strategy for apple pomace. Full article

(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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16 pages, 506 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Acceptance of Agro-Biomass as Innovative Solution for Heating in Rural Areas in Romania

by Ibolya Török, Enikő Mátyus, Tihamér-Tibor Sebestyén, Carmen Păunescu and Kinga Xénia Havadi-Nagy

Resources 2024, 13(11), 155; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13110155 - 30 Oct 2024

This paper aims to examine what can predict the adoption of agro-biomass as an innovative heating solution in rural areas. It explores the social acceptance of agro-biomass such as agriculture byproducts for heating in a rural context. The objectives are threefold: (1) to [...] Read more.

This paper aims to examine what can predict the adoption of agro-biomass as an innovative heating solution in rural areas. It explores the social acceptance of agro-biomass such as agriculture byproducts for heating in a rural context. The objectives are threefold: (1) to examine if there is a causal relationship between awareness and knowledge of agro-biomass applications for heating and intention to adopt this solution; (2) to investigate the extent to which perceived local drivers as well as barriers associated with agro-biomass utilization influence the intention to adopt this heating solution; and (3) to determine if knowledge about agro-biomass energy use, as well as political barriers to agro-biomass adoption for heating, play a mediating and/or moderating role in the established causal relationships. This paper uses primary data collected from rural residents located in different geographic areas in Romania. The 673 valid responses were analysed through multiple regression and mediation and moderation tests. The results confirm that awareness, knowledge, and perception of local drivers and of political barriers are positive predictors of intention to adopt agro-biomass as an innovative solution for heating. They also confirm the mediating role of knowledge and the moderating role of political barriers in the established relationships. Full article

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16 pages, 2245 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Local Use of Mangroves on the Coast of Southeastern México

by Carlos Alberto Martínez-Márquez, Ángel Sol Sánchez, Juan Manuel Zaldívar Cruz, Saúl Sánchez Soto, Nydia Del Rivero Bautista and Mario Manuel Aliphat Fernández

Resources 2024, 13(11), 154; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13110154 - 29 Oct 2024

Mangroves are essential for the well-being of the inhabitants of coastal areas, who have extensive knowledge about the use and exploitation of this resource. However, this knowledge is decreasing, which could trigger negative repercussions for this ecosystem. Ethnobiological investigations make it possible to [...] Read more.

Mangroves are essential for the well-being of the inhabitants of coastal areas, who have extensive knowledge about the use and exploitation of this resource. However, this knowledge is decreasing, which could trigger negative repercussions for this ecosystem. Ethnobiological investigations make it possible to gather information on the use, management, and exploitation of this resource. Hence, this paper presents a study that is framed around the coastal area of the state of Tabasco, in southeast México, and consists of 74 semi-structured interviews that were carried out, while the local relevance of each mangrove species was evaluated using ethnobiological indices. Three species of mangrove were identified, Avicennia germinans, Laguncularia racemosa, and Rhizophora mangle, and the latter species had the highest Use-Value (UV) Index value of 6.08. A total of 27 forms of forestry use were found, 11 for non-timber use and 16 for timber use. Firewood stood out as the main use with 12.6%, while the use of needles to make cloth and crafts represented the lowest percentage with 0.3%. The uses given by the coastal population to the mangroves and their respective species were influenced by immediate needs and specific characteristics of each species. To ensure the sustainability of mangroves, it is essential to design environmental strategies that integrate local ethnobiological knowledge and promote the active participation of direct users of this ecosystem. These strategies should be incorporated into public conservation policies, recognizing the cultural and economic value that mangroves hold for local communities. By implementing these actions, the relationship between communities and their environment will be strengthened, laying the groundwork for further exploration of coastal ethnobiology. Full article

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19 pages, 2374 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Oven-Dried Cupuaçu and Bacuri Fruit Pulps as Amazonian Food Resources

by Anna Paula Pereira Barbosa-Carvalho, Rosinelson da Silva Pena and Renan Campos Chisté

Resources 2024, 13(11), 153; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13110153 - 25 Oct 2024

The Amazon is one of the largest and most diverse biomes on the planet. Cupuaçu (Theobroma grandiflorum (Willd. ex Spreng.) Schum) and bacuri (Platonia insignis Mart.) are Amazonian fruit species appreciated for their sensory characteristics and promising availability of bioactive compounds. [...] Read more.

The Amazon is one of the largest and most diverse biomes on the planet. Cupuaçu (Theobroma grandiflorum (Willd. ex Spreng.) Schum) and bacuri (Platonia insignis Mart.) are Amazonian fruit species appreciated for their sensory characteristics and promising availability of bioactive compounds. However, high moisture levels (>80%) make these pulps susceptible to deterioration during storage. In this study, the oven-drying process was monitored to produce dry and more stable pulps. The process was monitored at 40 °C, 55 °C and 70 °C, and the bioactive compounds and antioxidant capacity were determined as quality indicators. In general, drying at 70 °C for 340 min produced dried cupuaçu and bacuri pulps with high levels of total phenolic compounds: 288 and 652 mg gallic acid equivalents/100 g, respectively. The hygroscopic evaluation suggested that both of the dried pulps should be stored at a relative humidity of <40% to avoid rapid water adsorption and it is advised to carry out the oven-drying process until up to 12% moisture is reached for cupuaçu and 9% for bacuri to avoid unnecessary energy consumption. Thus, this study expands the potential of bacuri and cupuaçu pulps for application in food industries, contributing to the economic and social development of the Amazon region. Full article

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18 pages, 8882 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Sources Affecting Microplastic Contamination in Mountain Lakes in Tatra National Park

by Piotr Kiełtyk, Kamil Karaban, Agnieszka Poniatowska, Angelika Bryska, Tomasz Runka, Zuzanna Sambor, Piotr Radomski, Tomasz Zwijacz-Kozica and Anita Kaliszewicz

Resources 2024, 13(11), 152; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13110152 - 25 Oct 2024

The global atmospheric transport of microplastics (MPs) plays a crucial role in the contamination of remote, especially higher-elevation, environments. Precipitation is considered the main source of MP pollution. Meanwhile, plastic waste generated from, for example, tourism activities can be a local source of [...] Read more.

The global atmospheric transport of microplastics (MPs) plays a crucial role in the contamination of remote, especially higher-elevation, environments. Precipitation is considered the main source of MP pollution. Meanwhile, plastic waste generated from, for example, tourism activities can be a local source of MP pollution. In this study, we specify which of the mentioned sources of MP, global or local, have a higher impact on the pollution level in the high-elevation oligotrophic lakes of Tatra National Park in Poland. Due to its unique natural value, it is listed by UNESCO as an international biosphere reserve and meets the criteria for Natura 2000 areas. We comprehensively analyzed the morphometric and anthropogenic features of 11 lakes in terms of the contamination level, color, shape, and polymer type of the MPs found in the surface waters. MP fibers were found to be present in all studied lakes, with contamination ranging from 25 to 179 items/m³. Polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, and natural or semi-natural cellulose fibers—black or red in color with a length of 0.2–1.0 mm—predominated, which corresponds with other studies conducted on remote mountain ecosystems. We did not find any correlation of the number of MPs with local anthropogenic pressure characteristics. In turn, the significant correlation with lake area, coastline length, lake volume, and catchment area indicated airborne sources, including global transport of MPs to the lakes with reduced water outflow. Full article

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27 pages, 2923 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainability and Environmental Performance in Selective Collection of Residual Materials: Impact of Modulating Citizen Participation Through Policy and Incentive Implementation

by Laurie Fontaine, Robert Legros and Jean-Marc Frayret

Resources 2024, 13(11), 151; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13110151 - 24 Oct 2024

The effective management of urban waste represents a growing challenge in the face of demographic evolution and increased consumption. This study explores the impacts of municipal strategic decisions on household waste management behaviours and sustainability performance outcomes through agent-based modelling. Using data from [...] Read more.

The effective management of urban waste represents a growing challenge in the face of demographic evolution and increased consumption. This study explores the impacts of municipal strategic decisions on household waste management behaviours and sustainability performance outcomes through agent-based modelling. Using data from Gatineau and Beaconsfield in Quebec, Canada, the model is calibrated and validated to represent diverse urban contexts. Our analysis demonstrates that reducing collection frequency leads to notable increases in participation rates, reaching 78.2 ± 5.1% for collections every two weeks and 96.5 ± 8.3% for collections every five weeks. While this reduction improves bin filling levels, it concurrently decreases the recovery of recyclable materials by 2.8% and 19.5%, significantly undermining the environmental benefits of the recycling program. These findings highlight a complex interplay between collection frequency, citizen participation behaviour, waste stream characteristics, and overall environmental performance. While reducing collection frequency initially appears beneficial, it leads to operational challenges and increased CO₂ emissions due to reduced material recovery. The research emphasises the need for tailored holistic waste management strategies that optimise performance outcomes while minimising environmental impacts. By understanding these dynamics, municipalities can develop more effective waste management policies that promote sustainability. Full article

(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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29 pages, 14428 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Application of Non-Parametric and Forecasting Models for the Sustainable Development of Energy Resources in Brazil

by Gabriela Mayumi Saiki, André Luiz Marques Serrano, Gabriel Arquelau Pimenta Rodrigues, Guilherme Dantas Bispo, Vinícius Pereira Gonçalves, Clóvis Neumann, Robson de Oliveira Albuquerque and Carlos Alberto Schuch Bork

Resources 2024, 13(11), 150; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13110150 - 23 Oct 2024

To achieve Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7) and improve energy management efficiency, it is essential to develop models and methods to forecast and enhance the process accurately. These tools are crucial in shaping the national policymakers’ strategies and planning decisions. This study utilizes [...] Read more.

To achieve Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7) and improve energy management efficiency, it is essential to develop models and methods to forecast and enhance the process accurately. These tools are crucial in shaping the national policymakers’ strategies and planning decisions. This study utilizes data envelopment analysis (DEA) and bootstrap computational methods to evaluate Brazil’s energy efficiency from 2004 to 2023. Additionally, it compares seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average (SARIMA) models and autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) forecasting models to predict the variables’ trends for 2030. One significant contribution of this study is the development of a methodology to assess Brazil’s energy efficiency, considering environmental and economic factors to formulate results. These results can help create policies to make SDG7 a reality and advance Brazil’s energy strategies. According to the study results, the annual energy consumption rate is projected to increase by an average of 2.1% by 2030, which is accompanied by a trend of GDP growth. By utilizing existing technologies in the country, it is possible to reduce electricity consumption costs by an average of 30.58% while still maintaining the same GDP value. This demonstrates that sustainable development and adopting alternatives to minimize the increase in energy consumption can substantially impact Brazil’s energy sector, improving process efficiency and the profitability of the Brazilian industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Energy Management and Sustainable Development from Economic, Social and Environmental Aspects)

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16 pages, 5717 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Seven Decades of Surface Temperature Changes in Central European Lakes: What Is Next?

by Mariusz Ptak, Teerachai Amnuaylojaroen and Mariusz Sojka

Resources 2024, 13(11), 149; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13110149 - 23 Oct 2024

Lakes are vital components of the hydrosphere, holding both environmental and economic significance. In recent times, they have undergone transformations in one of their key characteristics—water temperature. Assessing the scale and pace of these changes depends on the length and accuracy of the [...] Read more.

Lakes are vital components of the hydrosphere, holding both environmental and economic significance. In recent times, they have undergone transformations in one of their key characteristics—water temperature. Assessing the scale and pace of these changes depends on the length and accuracy of the available data. This study focuses on the two lakes in Poland (Białe Augustowskie and Studzieniczne) with the longest continuous water temperature records, ranging from 1954 to 2023. The results reveal a relatively stable thermal regime until the late 1980s (with changes that were statistically insignificant) and a significant shift over the past three decades, during which the water temperature increased at a rate of 0.5 °C per decade. Importantly, simulations indicate further warming of the water by the end of the 21st century. Depending on the chosen climate change scenario, the warming of both lakes is expected to continue, with the Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSP585) scenario projecting a steady increase of 0.5 °C per decade. Given the fundamental importance of water temperature in determining factors such as water quality, these future changes present a significant challenge for water management authorities in terms of maintaining and managing these ecosystems. Full article

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20 pages, 859 KiB

Open AccessReview

Review of Lithium as a Strategic Resource for Electric Vehicle Battery Production: Availability, Extraction, and Future Prospects

by Victor Osvaldo Vega-Muratalla, César Ramírez-Márquez, Luis Fernando Lira-Barragán and José María Ponce-Ortega

Resources 2024, 13(11), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13110148 - 23 Oct 2024

This article presents a comprehensive review of lithium as a strategic resource, specifically in the production of batteries for electric vehicles. This study examines global lithium reserves, extraction sources, purification processes, and emerging technologies such as direct lithium extraction methods. This paper also [...] Read more.

This article presents a comprehensive review of lithium as a strategic resource, specifically in the production of batteries for electric vehicles. This study examines global lithium reserves, extraction sources, purification processes, and emerging technologies such as direct lithium extraction methods. This paper also explores the environmental and social impacts of lithium extraction, emphasizing the need for sustainable and ethical practices within the supply chain. As electric vehicles are projected to account for over 60% of new car sales by 2030, the demand for high-performance batteries will persist, with lithium playing a key role in this transition, even with the development of alternatives to lithium-ion batteries, such as sodium and ammonium-based technologies. However, there is an urgent need for technological advancements to reduce the environmental impact of lithium production and lithium-ion battery manufacturing. Additionally, ensuring the safety of LiBs during both use and recycling stages is critical to sustainable EV adoption. This study concludes that advancements in battery recycling and the development of new technologies are essential to improving safety, reducing costs, and minimizing environmental impacts, thereby securing a sustainable lithium supply and supporting the future of electric mobility. Full article

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1 pages, 169 KiB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Bravo et al. The Role of Internet and Social Interactions in Advancing Waste Sorting Behaviors in Rural Communities. Resources 2024, 13, 57

by Liz Maribel Robladillo Bravo, Ricardo Fernando Cosio Borda, Luis Alberto Marcelo Quispe, James Arístides Pajuelo Rodríguez, Józef Ober and Nisar Ahmed Khan

Resources 2024, 13(11), 147; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13110147 - 23 Oct 2024

At the request of the authors, Xiaolan Wang and Nihal Ahmed have been removed from the original publication [...] Full article

14 pages, 2875 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Role of Lake Morphometric and Environmental Drivers of Ice Cover Formation and Occurrence on Temperate Lakes: A Case Study from the Eastern Baltic Lakeland, Poland

by Mariusz Ptak, Teerachai Amnuaylojaroen, Wenfeng Huang, Li Wang and Mariusz Sojka

Resources 2024, 13(10), 146; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13100146 - 21 Oct 2024

The presence of ice cover on temperate lakes is a crucial factor in determining the functioning of these ecosystems. The isolation of water from atmospheric influences significantly alters physical, chemical, and biological processes, and the intensity of this impact depends on the duration [...] Read more.

The presence of ice cover on temperate lakes is a crucial factor in determining the functioning of these ecosystems. The isolation of water from atmospheric influences significantly alters physical, chemical, and biological processes, and the intensity of this impact depends on the duration of the ice cover. This study analyzed the basic parameters of ice cover on several dozen lakes in Northeastern Poland. The aim of this study is to investigate the influence of morphometric parameters, alongside environmental factors, on the variation of ice cover characteristics in lakes located within the Eastern Baltic Lakeland. Characterization of ice conditions in the analyzed lakes was based on basic statistics such as minimum and maximum values, mean, standard deviation, coefficients of variation, skewness, and kurtosis. Given that the dataset contains variables describing ice phenomena in the studied lakes and data describing location, morphometric parameters, and land cover directly adjacent to the lake (treated as independent variables), a method of Spearman’s rank correlations and constrained ordination method were decided upon. Despite the relatively small study area, significant variability was observed, with average differences as follows: 26 days for the onset of ice cover, 17 days for the end date, 15 cm for ice thickness, and a 30-day difference in the average duration of ice cover. Key factors included parameters such as lake volume, average depth, and land use (urbanized and agricultural areas). Understanding parameters such as the onset and end of ice cover is essential for lake ecosystems, both from an ecological and economic perspective. This knowledge is crucial for interpreting the behavior of living organisms, water quality, and economic considerations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural and Anthropogenic Conditions of Changes in the Hydrosphere)

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11 pages, 1392 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Equivalence—A Useful Yet Complex Concept in Natural Resource Science

by Bradley Ridoutt

Resources 2024, 13(10), 145; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13100145 - 21 Oct 2024

The concept of equivalence is widely employed to aggregate different types of resource depletion or emissions. The practice offers convenience for reporting and can assist policymaking. However, equivalence is typically established using a model based only on selected criteria. If alternative criteria are [...] Read more.

The concept of equivalence is widely employed to aggregate different types of resource depletion or emissions. The practice offers convenience for reporting and can assist policymaking. However, equivalence is typically established using a model based only on selected criteria. If alternative criteria are used, the relative importance of different types of resource depletion or emissions can change. This communication addresses the subject of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and carbon dioxide equivalence (CO₂e). Using the Australian beef cattle and sheep meat sectors as a case study, radiative forcing (RF) footprints were quantified, and a method is presented to express these as CO₂e emissions rather than the units W/m². RF footprints are an alternative way of aggregating GHG emissions. They incorporate RF from current-year emissions and RF from historical emissions that remain in the atmosphere, avoiding the need to choose an arbitrary time horizon. There is simplicity and familiarity associated with the CO₂e unit. However, it is concluded that whenever GHG emissions are reported as CO₂e emissions, there is a need for transparency about the basis for equivalence, justification of the approach, as well interpretation of the results, and potential implications of selecting other bases of equivalency. Full article

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28 pages, 5219 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Farmers’ Perceptions on Sealing Techniques for Runoff Harvesting Ponds: A Case Study from Burkina Faso

by Tégawindé Vanessa Rosette Kaboré, Amadou Keïta, Abdou Lawane Gana, Dial Niang and Bassirou Boubé

Resources 2024, 13(10), 144; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13100144 - 21 Oct 2024

Water conservation in arid and semi-arid regions faces significant challenges due to low and irregular rainfall, worsened by climate change, which negatively affects rain-fed crop productivity. Various techniques, including supplemental irrigation using runoff harvesting ponds, aim to address these issues but often suffer [...] Read more.

Water conservation in arid and semi-arid regions faces significant challenges due to low and irregular rainfall, worsened by climate change, which negatively affects rain-fed crop productivity. Various techniques, including supplemental irrigation using runoff harvesting ponds, aim to address these issues but often suffer from water loss due to infiltration, influenced by the pond liner type. This study uses a factorial analysis to assess the farmers’ perceptions of four pond sealing techniques. Using the Waso-2 method, a survey conducted in 2022 among 41 rainwater harvesting pond owners across three regions of Burkina Faso revealed that farmers prioritized impermeability and ease of maintenance over cost and availability. Concrete, scoring 16/20, was the most preferred, chosen by over 75% of farmers for its durability and resistance to weathering, despite its high cost. Geomembrane, with a score of 12/20, was valued for its waterproofing properties but had durability concerns. Clay, although cheap and available, scored 8/20 due to poor waterproofing on unstable ground. Bitumen, the least favored with a score of 6/20, was hindered by scarcity and lack of familiarity. To enhance supplemental irrigation in Burkina Faso and similar regions, waterproof concrete or durable geomembrane liners are recommended. Further research into improving bitumen and clay liners is also suggested. These findings provide key insights into farmers’ preferences, offering guidance for developing effective water conservation strategies to boost agricultural productivity and address food security challenges in the context of climate change. Full article

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