Resources

5 pages, 150 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Mineral Resource Management 2023: Assessment, Mining and Processing

by Jian Cao

Resources 2025, 14(10), 166; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14100166 - 20 Oct 2025

Viewed by 252

Abstract

Mineral resources provide basic materials for the development of human society [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mineral Resource Management 2023: Assessment, Mining and Processing)

17 pages, 4143 KB

Open AccessArticle

Improving Resource Efficiency in Plant Protection by Enhancing Spray Penetration in Crop Canopies Using Air-Assisted Spraying

by Seweryn Lipiński, Piotr Markowski, Zdzisław Kaliniewicz and Piotr Szczyglak

Resources 2025, 14(10), 165; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14100165 - 17 Oct 2025

Viewed by 273

Abstract

Efficient pesticide application remains a critical resource-management challenge in modern agriculture, where limited spray penetration reduces treatment efficacy, wastes chemical inputs, and increases environmental losses. This study quantified the effect of air-assisted spraying (AAS) on droplet deposition in two contrasting field crops, oilseed [...] Read more.

Efficient pesticide application remains a critical resource-management challenge in modern agriculture, where limited spray penetration reduces treatment efficacy, wastes chemical inputs, and increases environmental losses. This study quantified the effect of air-assisted spraying (AAS) on droplet deposition in two contrasting field crops, oilseed rape and wheat. Field trials were conducted using a sprayer equipped with an adjustable airflow module, and spray coverage was measured with water-sensitive papers at multiple canopy heights and orientations. In oilseed rape, AAS improved deposition on front-facing and top surfaces in the lower canopy, for example, increasing top-surface coverage at 90 cm from 53.4% to 65.5% at 6 km∙h⁻¹, indicating more uniform distribution and enhanced penetration. In wheat, which typically exhibits a more open canopy structure compared to oilseed rape, AAS effects were smaller and less consistent, with the greatest gain on front-facing lower surfaces (from 13.3% to 21.9% at 7 km∙h⁻¹). Although drift was not measured in this experiment, previous studies using the same sprayer prototype demonstrated measurable reductions, supporting the environmental relevance of improved deposition. These results highlight the role of canopy architecture in determining AAS performance and underscore the technology’s potential to reduce pesticide inputs, minimize off-target losses, and improve the resource efficiency of crop protection in line with EU Farm to Fork objectives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Efficient and Sustainable Agricultural Resource Use: Advances in Research Methods and Applications)

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23 pages, 727 KB

Open AccessArticle

Determinants of Consumer Willingness to Invest in Green Energy Solutions: Perspectives from South Africa

by Solomon Eghosa Uhunamure, Clement Matasane, Trevor Uyi Omoruyi and Julieanna Powell-Turner

Resources 2025, 14(10), 164; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14100164 - 17 Oct 2025

Viewed by 363

Abstract

The energy sector holds critical importance for South Africa, particularly as a developing country grappling with persistent economic challenges and energy insecurity. These pressures have stimulated growing scientific and policy interest in renewable energy as a pathway to sustainable development. This study examines [...] Read more.

The energy sector holds critical importance for South Africa, particularly as a developing country grappling with persistent economic challenges and energy insecurity. These pressures have stimulated growing scientific and policy interest in renewable energy as a pathway to sustainable development. This study examines public perceptions and awareness of renewable energy technologies and estimates willingness to pay (WTP) for their increased integration into South Africa’s energy mix. By linking these objectives, the study provides insights into the social and economic factors that shape a just energy transition and informs targeted policies, investments, and engagement strategies to accelerate the adoption of renewable energy. A descriptive research design was employed, incorporating a systematic random sampling approach to ensure reliability and representativeness. Data were collected through structured questionnaire surveys conducted in both urban and rural households across Limpopo Province, South Africa. Findings reveal a generally positive public attitude toward the expansion of renewable energy, although knowledge levels remain moderate and are most pronounced with respect to solar energy systems. The mean household WTP for increased renewable energy penetration was estimated at ZAR 163.4 per annum. Binary logistic regression analysis identified eight statistically significant predictors of WTP: Education, Occupation, Income, Recognised Advantages (A1), Financial Incentive Schemes for RES (A3), Expansion Strategies for Renewable Energy (A4), Price Parity with Fossil Fuels (A7), and Interest-Free Financing Options (A8). These results highlight the importance of affordability, policy support, and tangible benefits in driving public acceptance. Overall, the findings highlight the potential for targeted policy and educational interventions to foster household participation and advance South Africa’s just energy transition. Full article

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23 pages, 592 KB

Open AccessArticle

Towards the Establishment of Protocols for Defining the Requirements of Different Mining Site Contexts Within the European Project Mine.io

by Cristina Sáez Blázquez, Vasileios Protonotarios, Max Friedemann, Ignacio Martín Nieto, Katerina Margariti and Diego González-Aguilera

Resources 2025, 14(10), 163; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14100163 - 10 Oct 2025

Viewed by 320

Abstract

Mining activity has been and is one of the most important and indispensable industries for the development of society. Given its role in the provision of raw materials, advancing the development of environmentally friendly mining practices is essential for meeting the globally established [...] Read more.

Mining activity has been and is one of the most important and indispensable industries for the development of society. Given its role in the provision of raw materials, advancing the development of environmentally friendly mining practices is essential for meeting the globally established goals of sustainable development. In this regard, actions and incentives are being promoted by the European Union, such as the Mine.io project presented in this research. In response to the needs identified within the mining sector, this research seeks to explore the functional and non-functional requirements across several mining contexts. The objective is to establish effective patterns that positively influence the sector activities. This effort is envisioned as a critical foundation for developing a digital architecture that addresses sector limitations and fosters the integration of Industry 4.0 principles into the mining domain. The results provide a solid basis for understanding the needs of the different mining sectors analyzed, while also demonstrating the potential advancements achievable through the project’s technological developments. They enable a comprehensive evaluation of the current technological state in relation to the broader context of global legacy practices, establishing informed guidelines for effective sector responses based on digitalization and the application of sustainable tools. Full article

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31 pages, 3193 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Environmental Life Cycle Assessment of Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB): A Comparative Study with Petrochemical and Bio-Based Polymers

by Magdalena Wojnarowska, Marcin Rychwalski and Tomasz Witko

Resources 2025, 14(10), 162; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14100162 - 10 Oct 2025

Viewed by 583

Abstract

In the context of the urgent global transition toward sustainable materials, this study presents a comparative environmental life cycle assessment (LCA) of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB), a biodegradable, bio-based polymer, against conventional petrochemical plastics (polystyrene—PS; polypropylene—PP) and another popular biopolymer, namely polylactic acid (PLA). The [...] Read more.

In the context of the urgent global transition toward sustainable materials, this study presents a comparative environmental life cycle assessment (LCA) of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB), a biodegradable, bio-based polymer, against conventional petrochemical plastics (polystyrene—PS; polypropylene—PP) and another popular biopolymer, namely polylactic acid (PLA). The LCA was conducted using primary production data from a laboratory-scale PHB manufacturing process, integrating real-time energy consumption measurements across all production stages. Environmental indicators such as carbon footprint and energy demand were analyzed under cradle-to-gate and end-of-life scenarios. The results indicate that PHB, while offering biodegradability and renewable sourcing, currently exhibits a significantly higher carbon footprint than PP, PS, and PLA, primarily due to its energy-intensive downstream processing. However, the environmental impact of PHB can be markedly reduced—by over 67%—through partial integration of renewable energy. PLA demonstrated the lowest production-phase emissions, while PP showed the most favorable end-of-life outcomes under municipal waste management assumptions. The study highlights the critical influence of energy sourcing, production scale, and waste treatment infrastructure on the sustainability performance of biopolymers. These findings provide practical insights for industry and policymakers aiming to reduce the environmental burden of plastics and support a shift toward circular material systems. Full article

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24 pages, 998 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Naidí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.), a Colombian Pacific Fruit with Potential Use in Animal Feed: A Systematic Review

by Eduardo J. Chavarro-Parra, Carlos A. Hincapié, Gustavo Adolfo Hincapié-Llanos, Marisol Osorio and Piedad Gañán-Rojo

Resources 2025, 14(10), 161; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14100161 - 9 Oct 2025

Viewed by 597

Abstract

Due to its implications for environmental conservation, the search for alternative ingredients to replace conventional raw materials destined for animal feed is a highly relevant issue. This systematic review aims to identify the fruit with the greatest potential for use in animal feed [...] Read more.

Due to its implications for environmental conservation, the search for alternative ingredients to replace conventional raw materials destined for animal feed is a highly relevant issue. This systematic review aims to identify the fruit with the greatest potential for use in animal feed among those commonly cultivated in the Colombian Pacific region. A bibliographic search of scientific articles on eight different fruits commonly cultivated in the Colombian Pacific was carried out in the Scopus and Web of Science databases. Using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) methodology, 970 publications from 2004 to 15 December 2024 were selected. After screening the publications, naidí (Euterpe oleracea) was selected as the fruit with the greatest potential for use in animal feed due to the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of the 53 relevant publications found in the databases. The articles were classified by subject matter: nutritional composition, bioactive compound content, and uses in animal feed. The results indicate that naidí is a good source of fat and fiber and has a suitable mineral and fatty acid profile for animal feed. It also contains a variety of chemical constituents, including polyphenols such as anthocyanins and other flavonoids. The multiple precedents found related to the use of naidí in animal feed, such as good indicators of weight gain, increased immune values, antioxidant capacity, and other health benefits, make this fruit and its by-products a promising source as an ingredient for animal feed. This expands the perspective and projection of the naidí industry in Colombia. Full article

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20 pages, 778 KB

Open AccessArticle

Biogas Production and Evaluation of the Potential of Sargassum Digestate as an Agricultural Substrate

by Héctor Alfredo López-Aguilar, Antonino Pérez-Hernández, David Quiroz-Cardoza, María del Rosario Peralta-Pérez, Francisco Javier Zavala-Díaz de la Serna and Linda Citlalli Noperi-Mosqueda

Resources 2025, 14(10), 160; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14100160 - 9 Oct 2025

Viewed by 633

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the production of biogas and the digestate obtained by means of the anaerobic digestion of sargassum, and its anaerobic co-digestion with municipal solid waste, while considering the effect of particle size and the carbon–nitrogen ratio [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the production of biogas and the digestate obtained by means of the anaerobic digestion of sargassum, and its anaerobic co-digestion with municipal solid waste, while considering the effect of particle size and the carbon–nitrogen ratio (C:N) on methane generation. Physicochemical analyses of both Sargassum and the digestate were performed, including ultimate analysis and heavy metal content. The highest methane yield (92.62 mL CH₄/gVS) was achieved with a 2 mm particle size and a C:N ratio of 15. Digestate characterization revealed the presence of arsenic and zinc, indicating the need for additional treatment before agricultural use. The agronomic potential of Sargassum digestate was assessed by comparing it with livestock waste, humus, and garden soil in tomato seedling growth trials. The Sargassum-based digestate significantly enhanced seedling biomass and development, supporting its potential as a sustainable soil amendment. Overall, the findings confirm the viability of Sargassum as a feedstock for biogas and biofertilizer production, emphasizing the importance of contaminant monitoring to ensure environmental safety. This study supports the integration of Sargassum into circular economy strategies and regenerative agricultural systems. Full article

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27 pages, 2846 KB

Open AccessArticle

Multiscale Evaluation of Raw Coconut Fiber as Biosorbent for Marine Oil Spill Remediation: From Laboratory to Field Applications

by Célia Karina Maia Cardoso, Ícaro Thiago Andrade Moreira, Antônio Fernando de Souza Queiroz, Olívia Maria Cordeiro de Oliveira and Ana Katerine de Carvalho Lima Lobato

Resources 2025, 14(10), 159; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14100159 - 9 Oct 2025

Viewed by 669

Abstract

This study provides the first comprehensive multiscale evaluation of raw coconut fibers as biosorbents for crude oil removal, encompassing laboratory adsorption tests, mesoscale hydrodynamic simulations, and field trials in marine environments. Fibers were characterized by SEM, FTIR, XRD, XPS, and chemical composition analysis [...] Read more.

This study provides the first comprehensive multiscale evaluation of raw coconut fibers as biosorbents for crude oil removal, encompassing laboratory adsorption tests, mesoscale hydrodynamic simulations, and field trials in marine environments. Fibers were characterized by SEM, FTIR, XRD, XPS, and chemical composition analysis (NREL method), confirming their lignocellulosic nature, high lignin content, and functional groups favorable for hydrocarbon adsorption. At the microscale, a 2⁵⁻¹ fractional factorial design evaluated the influence of dosage, concentration, contact time, temperature, and pH, followed by kinetic and equilibrium model fitting and regeneration tests. Dosage, concentration, and contact time were the most significant factors, while low sensitivity to salinity highlighted the material’s robustness under marine conditions. Adsorption followed pseudo-second-order kinetics, with an equilibrium adsorption capacity of 4.18 ± 0.19 g/g, and it was best described by the Langmuir isotherm, indicating chemisorption and monolayer formation. Mechanical regeneration by centrifugation allowed for reuse for up to five cycles without chemical reagents, aligning with circular economy principles. In mesoscale and field applications, fibers maintained structural integrity, buoyancy, and adsorption efficiency. These results provide strong technical support for the practical use of raw coconut fibers in oil spill response, offering a renewable, accessible, and cost-effective solution for scalable applications in coastal and marine environments. Full article

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13 pages, 2087 KB

Open AccessArticle

Solid-State Fermentation with Rhizopus oryzae: Enhancing Antioxidant and Phenolic Content in Pigmented Corn

by Ulises Ramírez-Esparza, Andrés J. Ordoñez-Cano, Leticia X. López-Martínez, José C. Espinoza-Hicks, Mónica Alvarado-González, Juan A. Ascacio-Valdés and José Juan Buenrostro-Figueroa

Resources 2025, 14(10), 158; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14100158 - 9 Oct 2025

Viewed by 581

Abstract

Corn is one of the most widely cultivated cereal crops and is rich in antioxidant compounds, especially phenolics. However, many of these are bound to cell wall components, requiring pre-treatment for release. Solid-state fermentation (SSF) with Rhizopus oryzae has been used to enhance [...] Read more.

Corn is one of the most widely cultivated cereal crops and is rich in antioxidant compounds, especially phenolics. However, many of these are bound to cell wall components, requiring pre-treatment for release. Solid-state fermentation (SSF) with Rhizopus oryzae has been used to enhance antioxidant capacity in grains and legumes, though its application in pigmented corn (PC) has not been reported. This study evaluated R. oryzae growth on PC via SSF and its effect on phenolic compound release and antioxidant capacity (AC). Variables such as temperature, pH, inoculum, and medium salts were tested for their influence on phenolic release and AC. Nutrient changes in PC due to SSF were also examined. HPLC-MS was used to analyze the phenolic compounds’ profile. R. oryzae grew effectively on PC, increasing total phenolic content (TPC) and AC by 131 and 50%, respectively. The pH was found to negatively impact phenolic release. The SSF also raised protein content by 10% and reduced carbohydrates and fiber by 3 and 8%. Thirteen phenolic compounds were identified, including Feruloyl tartaric acid ester and p-Coumaroyl tartaric acid glycosidic ester, with known anti-inflammatory properties. This process offers a sustainable method for enhancing the functional properties of pigmented corn. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Resource Extraction from Agricultural Products/Waste: 2nd Edition)

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26 pages, 3383 KB

Open AccessArticle

Biomass Gasification for Waste-to-Energy Conversion: Artificial Intelligence for Generalizable Modeling and Multi-Objective Optimization of Syngas Production

by Gema Báez-Barrón, Francisco Javier Lopéz-Flores, Eusiel Rubio-Castro and José María Ponce-Ortega

Resources 2025, 14(10), 157; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14100157 - 8 Oct 2025

Viewed by 662

Abstract

Biomass gasification, a key waste-to-energy technology, is a complex thermochemical process with many input variables influencing the yield and quality of syngas. In this study, data-driven machine learning models are developed to capture the nonlinear relationships between feedstock properties, operating conditions, and syngas [...] Read more.

Biomass gasification, a key waste-to-energy technology, is a complex thermochemical process with many input variables influencing the yield and quality of syngas. In this study, data-driven machine learning models are developed to capture the nonlinear relationships between feedstock properties, operating conditions, and syngas composition, in order to optimize process performance. Random Forest (RF), CatBoost (Categorical Boosting), and an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) were trained to predict key syngas outputs (syngas composition and syngas yield) from process inputs. The best-performing model (ANN) was then integrated into a multi-objective optimization framework using the open-source Optimization & Machine Learning Toolkit (OMLT) in Pyomo. An optimization problem was formulated with two objectives—maximizing the hydrogen-to-carbon monoxide (H₂/CO) ratio and maximizing the syngas yield simultaneously, subject to operational constraints. The trade-off between these competing objectives was resolved by generating a Pareto frontier, which identifies optimal operating points for different priority weightings of syngas quality vs. quantity. To interpret the ML models and validate domain knowledge, SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) were applied, revealing that parameters such as equivalence ratio, steam-to-biomass ratio, feedstock lower heating value, and fixed carbon content significantly influence syngas outputs. Our results highlight a clear trade-off between maximizing hydrogen content and total gas yield and pinpoint optimal conditions for balancing this trade-off. This integrated approach, combining advanced ML predictions, explainability, and rigorous multi-objective optimization, is novel for biomass gasification and provides actionable insights to improve syngas production efficiency, demonstrating the value of data-driven optimization in sustainable waste-to-energy conversion processes. Full article

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21 pages, 1746 KB

Open AccessReview

Carbon Recovery from Wastewater Feedstocks: Synthesis of Polyhydroxyalkanoates for Target Applications

by Mario I. Sepúlveda, Michael Seeger and Gladys Vidal

Resources 2025, 14(10), 156; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14100156 - 1 Oct 2025

Viewed by 609

Abstract

Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) bioplastics are produced from wastewater as a carbon recovery strategy. However, the tuneable characteristics of PHAs and wastewater biorefinery potential have not been comprehensively reviewed. The aim of this study is to review the main challenges and strategies for carbon recovery [...] Read more.

Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) bioplastics are produced from wastewater as a carbon recovery strategy. However, the tuneable characteristics of PHAs and wastewater biorefinery potential have not been comprehensively reviewed. The aim of this study is to review the main challenges and strategies for carbon recovery from wastewater feedstocks via PHA production, assessing potential target biopolymer applications. Diverse PHA-accumulating prokaryotes metabolize organic pollutants present in wastewater through different metabolic pathways, determining the biopolymer characteristics. The synthesis of PHAs using mixed microbial cultures with wastewater feedstocks derived from municipal, agro-industrial, food processing, lignocellulosic biomass processing and biofuel production activities are described. Acidogenic fermentation of wastewater feedstocks and mixed microbial culture enrichment are key steps in order to enhance PHA productivity and determine biopolymer properties towards customized bioplastics for specific applications. Biorefinery of PHA copolymers and extracellular polysaccharides (EPSs), including alginate-like polysaccharides, are alternatives to enhance the value-chain of carbon recovery from wastewater. PHAs and EPSs exhibit a wide repertoire of applications with distinct safety control requirements; hence, coupling biopolymer production demonstrations with target applications is crucial to move towards full-scale applications. This study discusses the relationship between the metabolic basis of PHA synthesis and composition, wastewater type, and target applications, describing the potential to maximize carbon resource valorisation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances and Innovations in Waste Management)

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24 pages, 1907 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Biomass Valorisation Resources, Opportunities, and Barriers in Ireland: A Case Study of Counties Monaghan and Tipperary

by Nishtha Talwar, Rosanna Kleemann, Egle Gusciute and Fionnuala Murphy

Resources 2025, 14(10), 155; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14100155 - 29 Sep 2025

Viewed by 568

Abstract

Agriculture is Ireland’s largest sector with agri-food exports amounting to EUR 15.2B in 2021. However, agriculture is also Ireland’s largest contributor to GHGs, accounting for 37.4% of emissions in 2020. Developing indigenous renewable energy sources is a national objective towards reducing GHG emissions. [...] Read more.

Agriculture is Ireland’s largest sector with agri-food exports amounting to EUR 15.2B in 2021. However, agriculture is also Ireland’s largest contributor to GHGs, accounting for 37.4% of emissions in 2020. Developing indigenous renewable energy sources is a national objective towards reducing GHG emissions. The National Policy Statement on the Bioeconomy of Ireland advises a cascading principle of biomass use, where higher-value applications are derived from biomass before energy generation. This research quantifies and characterises biomass wastes at farms, food production, and forestry settings in counties Monaghan and Tipperary, Ireland. Value chains, along with Sankey diagrams, are presented, which identify biomass that can be exploited for valorisation and show their fates in industry/environment. The quantity of biomass wastes available for valorisation under Business as Usual (BAU) vs. Best-Case Scenario (BCS) models is presented. BCS assumes a co-operative system to increase the feedstock available for valorisation. In Monaghan, 73 t of biomass waste vs. 240 t are available for valorisation under Scenario A vs. Scenario B, respectively. In contrast, in Tipperary, a 7-fold increase in biomass waste is achieved, comparing Scenario A (126 t) against Scenario B (905 t). This highlights the importance of engaging local stakeholders to build co-operative models for biomass valorisation. Not only is this environmentally beneficial, but also socially and economically advantageous. Creating indigenous fertiliser and energy sources is important for the island of Ireland, not only in meeting market demand, but also in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and achieving emission reduction targets. Full article

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21 pages, 3804 KB

Open AccessArticle

Geostatistical and Multivariate Assessment of Radon Distribution in Groundwater from the Mexican Altiplano

by Alfredo Bizarro Sánchez, Marusia Renteria-Villalobos, Héctor V. Cabadas Báez, Alondra Villarreal Vega, Miguel Balcázar and Francisco Zepeda Mondragón

Resources 2025, 14(10), 154; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14100154 - 29 Sep 2025

Viewed by 415

Abstract

This study examines the impact of physicochemical and geological factors on radon concentrations in groundwater throughout the Mexican Altiplano. Geological diversity, uranium deposits, seismic zones, and geothermal areas with high heat flow are all potential factors contributing to the presence of radon in [...] Read more.

This study examines the impact of physicochemical and geological factors on radon concentrations in groundwater throughout the Mexican Altiplano. Geological diversity, uranium deposits, seismic zones, and geothermal areas with high heat flow are all potential factors contributing to the presence of radon in groundwater. To move beyond local-scale assessments, this research employs spatial prediction methodologies that incorporate geological and geochemical variables recognized for their role in radon transport and geogenic potential. Certain properties of radon enable it to serve as an ideal tracer, viz., short half-life, inertness, and higher incidence in groundwater than surface water. Twenty-five variables were analyzed in samples from 135 water wells. Geostatistical techniques, including inverse distance weighted interpolation and kriging, were used in conjunction with multivariate statistical analyses. Salinity and geothermal heat flow are key indicators for determining groundwater origin, revealing a dynamic interplay between geothermal activity and hydrogeochemical evolution, where high temperatures do not necessarily correlate with increased solute concentrations. The occurrence of toxic trace elements such as Cd, Cr, and Pb is primarily governed by lithogenic sources and proximity to mineralized zones. Radon levels in groundwater are mainly influenced by geological and structural features, notably rhyolitic formations and deep hydrothermal systems. These findings underscore the importance of site-specific groundwater examination, combined with spatiotemporal models, to account for uranium–radium dynamics and flow paths, thereby enhancing radiological risk assessment. Full article

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15 pages, 361 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Natural Additives for Sustainable Meat Preservation: Salicornia ramosissima and Acerola Extract in Mertolenga D.O.P. Meat

by Gonçalo Melo, Joana Paiva, Carla Gonçalves, Sónia Saraiva, Madalena Faria, Tânia Silva-Santos, Márcio Moura-Alves, Juan García-Díez, José M. M. M. de Almeida, Humberto Rocha and Cristina Saraiva

Resources 2025, 14(10), 153; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14100153 - 28 Sep 2025

Viewed by 447

Abstract

The search for natural additives from underutilized halophytes and fruit by-products aligns with circular economy principles, addressing consumer demand for healthier and more sustainable alternatives to salt and synthetic antioxidants in foods. Salicornia ramosissima, a halophytic plant rich in minerals, and Malpighia [...] Read more.

The search for natural additives from underutilized halophytes and fruit by-products aligns with circular economy principles, addressing consumer demand for healthier and more sustainable alternatives to salt and synthetic antioxidants in foods. Salicornia ramosissima, a halophytic plant rich in minerals, and Malpighia emarginata (acerola), a fruit rich in bioactive compounds, were selected for their potential to enhance meat preservation while reducing reliance on conventional salt and chemical additives. This study evaluated the effects of replacing salt with S. ramosissima powder (1% and 2%) and adding acerola extract (0.3%) in Mertolenga D.O.P. beef hamburgers. Control, 1% salt, acerola, and salicornia formulations were analyzed over 10 days for the following: (1) microbial counts (mesophiles, psychrotrophics, Enterobacteriaceae, Pseudomonas spp., Brochothrix thermosphacta, lactic acid bacteria, fungi, Salmonella spp., and E. coli); (2) physicochemical parameters (pH, a_w, and CIE-Lab color); and (3) sensory attributes (odor, color, and freshness). Higher Salicornia concentrations negatively affected color (lower a* values) and sensory perception (darker appearance). Acerola extract improved color stability and delayed the development of off-odors, contributing to higher freshness scores throughout storage. No significant differences in microbial counts were observed between treatments. Overall, acerola and low-dose Salicornia showed potential as natural ingredients for meat preservation, with minimal impact on physicochemical and microbiological quality. These findings support the use of halophytes and fruit extracts in sustainable meat preservation strategies. Full article

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29 pages, 730 KB

Open AccessArticle

Agroforestry as a Resource for Resilience in the Technological Era: The Case of Ukraine

by Sergiusz Pimenow, Olena Pimenowa, Lubov Moldavan, Piotr Prus and Katarzyna Sadowska

Resources 2025, 14(10), 152; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14100152 - 25 Sep 2025

Viewed by 827

Abstract

Climate change is intensifying droughts, heatwaves, dust storms, and rainfall variability across Eastern Europe, undermining yields and soil stability. In Ukraine, decades of underinvestment and wartime damage have led to widespread degradation of field shelterbelts, while the adoption of agroforestry remains constrained by [...] Read more.

Climate change is intensifying droughts, heatwaves, dust storms, and rainfall variability across Eastern Europe, undermining yields and soil stability. In Ukraine, decades of underinvestment and wartime damage have led to widespread degradation of field shelterbelts, while the adoption of agroforestry remains constrained by tenure ambiguity, fragmented responsibilities, and limited access to finance. This study develops a policy-and-technology framework to restore agroforestry at scale under severe fiscal and institutional constraints. We apply a three-stage approach: (i) a national baseline (post-1991 legislation, statistics) to diagnose the biophysical and legal drivers of shelterbelt decline, including wartime damage; (ii) a comparative synthesis of international support models (governance, incentives, finance); and (iii) an assessment of transferability of digital monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) tools to Ukraine. We find that eliminating tenure ambiguities, introducing targeted cost sharing, and enabling access to payments for ecosystem services and voluntary carbon markets can unlock financing at scale. A digital MRV stack—Earth observation, UAV/LiDAR, IoT sensors, and AI—can verify tree establishment and survival, quantify biomass and carbon increments, and document eligibility for performance-based incentives while lowering transaction costs relative to field-only surveys. The resulting sequenced policy package provides an actionable pathway for policymakers and donors to finance, monitor, and scale shelterbelt restoration in Ukraine and in similar resource-constrained settings. Full article

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22 pages, 1395 KB

Open AccessArticle

Advancing the Analysis of Resilience of Global Phosphate Flows

by Matthias Raddant, Martin Bertau and Gerald Steiner

Resources 2025, 14(10), 151; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14100151 - 24 Sep 2025

Viewed by 750

Abstract

This paper introduces a novel method for estimating material flows, with a focus on tracing phosphate flows from mining countries to those using phosphate in agricultural production. Our approach integrates data on phosphate rock extraction, fertilizer use, and international trade of phosphate-related products. [...] Read more.

This paper introduces a novel method for estimating material flows, with a focus on tracing phosphate flows from mining countries to those using phosphate in agricultural production. Our approach integrates data on phosphate rock extraction, fertilizer use, and international trade of phosphate-related products. A key advantage of this method is that it does not require detailed data on material concentrations, as these are indirectly estimated within the model. We demonstrate that our model can reconstruct country-level phosphate flow matrices with a high degree of accuracy, thereby enhancing traditional material flow analyses. This method bridges the gap between conventional material flow analysis and the economic analysis of resilience of national supply chains, and it is applicable not only to phosphorus but also to other resource flows. We show how the estimated flows can support country-specific assessments of supply security: while global phosphate flows appear moderately concentrated, country-level analyses reveal significant disparities in import dependencies and, in some cases, substantially higher supplier concentration. Full article

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17 pages, 4040 KB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Small Dam Performance in Wadi Horan: A Hydrological Modelling Study for Rainwater Harvesting

by Ammar Adham, Hussam Suri, Rasha Abed and Coen Ritsema

Resources 2025, 14(10), 150; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14100150 - 24 Sep 2025

Viewed by 1603

Abstract

Water resources are a crucial foundation, and their importance increases in dry and semi-arid environments. Given the constraints of water resources, increasing population needs, and the processes of evaporation and infiltration, it is imperative to explore strategies to optimise rainfall, noted for its [...] Read more.

Water resources are a crucial foundation, and their importance increases in dry and semi-arid environments. Given the constraints of water resources, increasing population needs, and the processes of evaporation and infiltration, it is imperative to explore strategies to optimise rainfall, noted for its abruptness and quick accessibility. Constructing small dams is one of the most effective methods for harvesting rainwater in the Iraqi Western Desert. This will conserve water throughout the arid season. The study’s goal was to assess and enhance rainwater harvesting (RWH) performance across diverse design and management scenarios, utilising a novel water-harvesting model (WHCatch) for testing at the sub-catchment level. Rainfall data from two dams in Wadi Horan from 1990 to 2019 were included in the model. This study emphasises the advantages of modelling long-term water balances at the sub-catchment level and proposes strategies for optimising rainwater harvesting to enhance understanding of the hydrological processes inside the rainwater harvesting system. Substantial enhancements in RWH performance were attained by modifying the heights of the spillway (2 m) and the flow directions, yielding 90% and 85% increased storage for the Horan/2 dam and the Horan/3 dam, respectively. In practice, this provides guidelines for creating and implementing low-cost, minor dam modifications as well as for establishing seasonal release schedules that satisfy downstream and storage requirements. The findings are consistent with policy-level support for sustainable development goals in arid regions. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Forage Quality Improves but Ecosystem Multifunctionality Declines Under Drought and Frequent Cutting in Dry Grassland Mesocosms

by Joana Rosado, Irene Mandrini, Lucia Muggia, Cristina Cruz and Teresa Dias

Resources 2025, 14(10), 149; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14100149 - 24 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Dry grasslands are vast, socioeconomically and ecologically important environments, which are increasingly threatened by multiple stressors. We tested whether plant cover composition could mitigate ecosystem services loss under multiple stressors in dry grassland mesocosms by growing the grass sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) [...] Read more.

Dry grasslands are vast, socioeconomically and ecologically important environments, which are increasingly threatened by multiple stressors. We tested whether plant cover composition could mitigate ecosystem services loss under multiple stressors in dry grassland mesocosms by growing the grass sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) alone (Grass cover) or together with the legume serradella (Ornithopus sativus) (Mixed cover) under frequent cutting and/or increasing water stress. We assessed erosion control, carbon sequestration, forage quantity and quality, and soil fertility, individually and simultaneously (i.e., multifunctionality). Contrary to our hypothesis, the Mixed cover did not improve ecosystem services compared to the Grass cover, except for forage quality, which improved by 30%. In general, the stressors had negative effects: cutting reduced erosion control by 20%, forage quantity by 50%, soil fertility by 40% and multifunctionality by 20%, and severe water stress decreased carbon sequestration by 40%, forage quantity by 30%, soil fertility by 10%, and multifunctionality by 10%. Water stress caused 100% serradella mortality, underscoring this legume’s vulnerability to increasing aridity. Combined stressors yielded the lowest service provision. Forage quality was the only service that improved under stress: cutting improved it by 40% and severe water stress by 60%. Our results suggest that while systems combining grasses and legumes may enhance forage quality, grass-dominated systems appear more resilient to multiple stressors in drylands, largely due to their superior efficiency in accessing and conserving limited water and nutrient resources. Given the ongoing trends of aridification and land-use intensification, future research should explore adaptive management strategies that prioritize resource-efficient plant species, foster belowground resource retention, and optimize grazing regimes to sustain resilience and multifunctionality in dry grasslands. Full article

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Resources, Volume 14, Issue 10 (October 2025) – 18 articles

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