Resources

25 pages, 8142 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Life Cycle Assessment of Methanol Production from Municipal Solid Waste: Environmental Comparison with Landfilling and Incineration

by Cristiano Queiroz Cerqueira, Electo Eduardo Silva Lora, Lidiane La Picirelli de Souza, Márcio Montagnana Vicente Leme, Regina Mambeli Barros and Osvaldo José Venturini

Resources 2025, 14(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14010012 - 9 Jan 2025

Abstract

Inadequate waste management strategies play a significant role in exacerbating environmental challenges, such as increased greenhouse gas emissions, resource depletion, and other adverse ecological impacts. These issues are aggravated by the global rise in municipal solid waste (MSW) generation, surpassing the rate of [...] Read more.

Inadequate waste management strategies play a significant role in exacerbating environmental challenges, such as increased greenhouse gas emissions, resource depletion, and other adverse ecological impacts. These issues are aggravated by the global rise in municipal solid waste (MSW) generation, surpassing the rate of population growth. Simultaneously, there is an urgent demand for sustainable energy solutions to combat climate change and its wide-ranging impacts. In response, this study addresses a critical question: is methanol production from MSW, a waste-to-chemical (WtC) alternative based on circular economy principles, a more environmentally sustainable approach compared to traditional waste-to-energy (WtE) methods like landfilling with biogas recovery and incineration? To answer this, this study evaluates the environmental performance of MSW-to-methanol technologies using life cycle assessment (LCA), focusing on key indicators such as global warming potential, resource depletion, and impacts on human health and ecosystem quality. The results reveal that methanol production from MSW significantly reduces global warming potential (GWP) by 87% compared to landfilling and 56% compared to incineration. Additionally, the process demonstrates high energy efficiency in electricity generation, achieving 80% of the output of incineration. These findings position MSW-to-methanol as a promising alternative for advancing sustainable waste management and renewable energy transitions. While the technology is still in its developmental stages, this research highlights the need for further advancements and policy support to enhance feasibility and scalability. By providing a comparative environmental analysis, this study contributes to identifying innovative pathways for addressing pressing waste management and energy sustainability challenges. Full article

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26 pages, 6563 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Strategic Approaches to Define the Production Rate in Conceptual Projects of Critical Raw Materials

by Lucas Zucchi Silva and Anna Luiza Marques Ayres da Silva

Resources 2025, 14(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14010011 - 8 Jan 2025

Abstract

Mining projects are intricate, requiring significant time and investment for feasibility studies, despite a low likelihood of reaching execution. Accurate project factors can optimize costs across the study, execution, and operation phases. This work proposes a strategic approach to define the production rate [...] Read more.

Mining projects are intricate, requiring significant time and investment for feasibility studies, despite a low likelihood of reaching execution. Accurate project factors can optimize costs across the study, execution, and operation phases. This work proposes a strategic approach to define the production rate in conceptual projects of critical raw materials, based on well-established formulae from Taylor, Long, and Singer, focusing on copper, zinc, and lead. Copper and zinc are crucial for renewable energy systems and low-carbon technologies, while lead supports energy storage applications. A dataset containing mine production and mineral resources from several mine projects, gathered from a specialized global company, was used to create a production rate equation and then compared using an adherence indicator to validate the formulae. The best adherence indicator from earlier studies was 59%. Copper projects did not show good adherence to the new formulae. Zinc and lead projects showed very good results, generating three formulae with good adherence numbers (above 70%), and they can be taken as a reference to calculate the production rate of new open-pit and underground mining projects. These findings offer a reliable strategic approach for estimating production rates in early-stage zinc and lead projects, enhancing the efficiency of the conceptual study phase in mining. Full article

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21 pages, 4146 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

How Reducing Fossil-Based Plastic Use Can Help the Overall Sustainability of Oyster Farming: The Case of the Gulf of La Spezia

by Daniela Summa, Elena Tamisari, Mattia Lanzoni, Giuseppe Castaldelli and Elena Tamburini

Resources 2025, 14(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14010010 - 8 Jan 2025

Abstract

Oyster farming plays a crucial role in sustainable food production due to its high nutritional value and relatively low environmental impact. However, in a scenario of increasing production, it is necessary to consider the issue of plastic use as a limitation to be [...] Read more.

Oyster farming plays a crucial role in sustainable food production due to its high nutritional value and relatively low environmental impact. However, in a scenario of increasing production, it is necessary to consider the issue of plastic use as a limitation to be addressed. A life cycle assessment (LCA) was conducted on oyster farming in La Spezia (Italy) as a case study, utilizing 1 kg of packaged oysters as the functional unit. Fossil-based plastics and wooden packaging were identified as the primary environmental concerns. To analyze potential strategies for reducing the environmental impact of oyster farming, alternative scenarios were considered wherein fossil-based materials were replaced with bio-based materials. Specifically, this study examined the substitution of the current packaging, consisting of a wooden box and a polypropylene (PP) film, with a fully recyclable PP net. Additionally, polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), and bio-based polyethylene terephthalate (Bio-PET) were proposed as alternatives to virgin high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and PP for buoys, oyster bags, and boxes. Among the scenarios analyzed, the sole effective strategy to reduce the impact of plastics on the process is to replace them with PHA. In the other cases, the high energy consumption of their non-optimized production renders them disadvantageous options. However, the assessment must include the effects of degradation that traditional plastics can have in the marine environment, an aspect that potentially renders natural fibers more advantageous. The use of PP net packaging has demonstrated high efficacy in reducing impacts and provides a foundation for considering the need to combine sustainability and marketing with current legislation regarding food packaging. Full article

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20 pages, 6169 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Green Mussel Shells (Perna viridis) and Chitosan Extracted from Milkfish (Chanos chanos) Scales on the Compressive Strength of Mortar and Concrete

by Bernardo Lejano, Kenneth Jae Elevado, Lorenzo Martin Chua, Simon Rohi Cuartero, Vince Philip Fabian and Alyanna Ysabel Rase

Resources 2025, 14(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14010009 - 31 Dec 2024

Abstract

It is estimated that in the construction industry, cement production contributes to 7% of global CO₂ emissions. Because of this, alternative materials, including biological resources and wastes, are being explored to determine their viability as substitutes for conventional concrete aggregates. This study [...] Read more.

It is estimated that in the construction industry, cement production contributes to 7% of global CO₂ emissions. Because of this, alternative materials, including biological resources and wastes, are being explored to determine their viability as substitutes for conventional concrete aggregates. This study investigates the feasibility of using green mussel shells (GMSs) as a partial cement replacement and chitosan derived from milkfish scales as an additive in concrete. Addressing environmental concerns tied to cement production, the research evaluates the potential of GMSs and chitosan to enhance mortar and concrete properties. This study was conducted in two phases: phase one focused on mortar with varying percentages of GMSs (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%) and chitosan (0%, 0.25%, 0.50%, 0.75%, and 1%), while phase two applied the phase one results that resulted in the highest compressive strength of concrete. The results indicate that 10% GMS and 0.25% chitosan improved mortar strength by 38.74%, although high GMS levels reduced workability. In concrete, 10% GMS without chitosan decreased compressive strength by up to 47% due to magnesium impurities in GMSs, verified by FTIR analysis. This study highlights GMSs’ and chitosan’s potential but emphasizes impurity management for its application feasibility. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Alternative Use of Biological Resources)

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27 pages, 5540 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Physicochemical Properties of Oil Sludge on Syngas Production for Energy Applications

by Hiago Oliveira, Isabela Pinheiro, Ana Ramos, Osvaldo Venturini, Adriano Mariano and York Santiago

Resources 2025, 14(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14010008 - 28 Dec 2024

Abstract

Oil sludge (OS) is a hazardous waste generated in the refinery and platform production chain. Its recovery is globally limited by methods like incineration, landfilling, and stabilization, which are costly and environmentally harmful. In Brazil, advanced techniques such as gasification are still underdeveloped [...] Read more.

Oil sludge (OS) is a hazardous waste generated in the refinery and platform production chain. Its recovery is globally limited by methods like incineration, landfilling, and stabilization, which are costly and environmentally harmful. In Brazil, advanced techniques such as gasification are still underdeveloped compared to established practices elsewhere. This study aims to characterize the chemical and physical properties of OS to enable its recovery through energy methods, reducing environmental impacts. OS samples from oil storage tanks were analyzed using mass spectrometry, thermogravimetry, atomic absorption, proximate analysis, X-ray fluorescence, and X-ray diffraction. The viscosity was approximately 34,793 cP, with 36.41% carbon and 56.80% oxygen. The ash content was 43.218% (w/w), and the lower and upper heating values were 17.496 and 19.044 MJ/kg, respectively. Metal analysis identified lead, vanadium, manganese, and chromium. The high ash content of OS reduced gasification temperatures, increasing char yield (44.6%). Increasing the equivalence ratio (ER) led to higher gasification temperatures, producing energetic species such as H₂, CH₄, and CO, raising the calorific value of the resulting syngas. Subsequently, this syngas was used in gas turbine models with GasTurb software 14.0, achieving electrical output and thermal efficiency of 66.9 kW and 22.4%, respectively. OS is a persistent waste requiring gasification treatment, offering a promising solution that converts these residues into valuable syngas for energy conversion with minimal environmental impact. Full article

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20 pages, 2510 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Monitoring Brazilian Food Security Based on Emergy Concepts: A Proposed Approach

by Rafael Araujo Nacimento, Mario Duarte Canever, Luiz Carlos Terra dos Santos, Cecília Almeida, Feni Agostinho and Biagio Fernando Giannetti

Resources 2025, 14(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14010007 - 28 Dec 2024

Abstract

This study enhances the discussion on food security by examining trade equity between food consumers and the supply chain from an emergy perspective. The objective is to develop a food security indicator for Brazil as a case study that provides a holistic view [...] Read more.

This study enhances the discussion on food security by examining trade equity between food consumers and the supply chain from an emergy perspective. The objective is to develop a food security indicator for Brazil as a case study that provides a holistic view of the historical relationship (from 1995 to 2022) between the emergy and money received by consumers and the emergy and money supplied by the food chain. Each item in the Brazilian food basket was evaluated using the Emergy Exchange Ratio (EER) indicator, which measures the advantages and disadvantages that consumers and the food chain experience in their exchanges. The results indicate that processed food items such as oils and butter generally provide greater net emergy benefits to consumers compared to fresh food items like meat, bananas, tomatoes, and potatoes, which often favor the supply chain. Furthermore, the findings highlight that vulnerable populations face significant challenges in achieving food security due to their increased efforts to generate income relative to the emergy they receive for their social welfare. The proposed food security indicator reveals that consumers enjoyed a more balanced trade since the mid-1990s; however, this trend has recently begun to reverse, underscoring the need for policies that ensure fairer exchanges. This work contributes to discussions on food security by considering an emergy-based approach with the modified Emergy per Money Ratio (EMR) as a complement to traditionally used approaches. Full article

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12 pages, 577 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fungal Submerged Fermentation of Coffee Silverskin: A Sustainable Source of Natural Meat Additives

by Stephany Carolina Terán-Rivera, Gastón Ramón Torrescano-Urrutia, Brisa del Mar Torres-Martínez, Martín Esqueda-Valle, Félix Joel Ibarra-Arias, Armida Sánchez-Escalante and Rey David Vargas-Sánchez

Resources 2025, 14(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14010006 - 27 Dec 2024

Abstract

The coffee industry, while processing coffee beans, generates residues like husk, pulp, and silverskin, which have been considered a promising source of bioactive metabolites. Recovering these metabolites offers a sustainable strategy to obtain natural food additives. Based on the above, this study aimed [...] Read more.

The coffee industry, while processing coffee beans, generates residues like husk, pulp, and silverskin, which have been considered a promising source of bioactive metabolites. Recovering these metabolites offers a sustainable strategy to obtain natural food additives. Based on the above, this study aimed to determine the effect of the aqueous extract obtained from maceration and fungal fermented coffee silverskin (CSS) on ground pork meat’s oxidative and microbiological stability. Treatments used to recover bioactive compounds from CSS were the following: maceration extraction (ME) using 0, 1.5, and 3.0% of CSS (ME–0%, ME–1.5%, and ME–3%); fungal submerged fermentation extraction (FE) using 0, 1.5, and 3.0% of CSS (FE–0%, FE–1.5%, and FE–3%) and Pleurotus pulmonarius mycelium. Concerning metabolite content and bioactivity, results showed a decrease in the carbohydrate content of the ME and FE-obtained, as well as an increase in the phenol, flavonoid, and caffeoylquinic acid content. Also, an increase in radical cation scavenging activity, reducing power values and antibacterial activity of the extracts obtained with FE, was observed. Regarding pork meat homogenate treated with ME and FE extracts and subjected to oxidation with potassium ferrocyanide, results demonstrated that inclusion of FE-obtained extract led to decreased pH, lipid oxidation, metmyoglobin, and color changes (L*, a*, b*, C*, and h*), and microbial growth. These results demonstrate that CSS aqueous extract obtained with FE can be considered a potential additive for the meat industry with antioxidant and antibacterial activity. Nevertheless, further research is necessary to assess the sensory impact, biochemical mechanism, food safety, sustainability, and industrial feasibility of these extracts for broader applications. Full article

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

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16 pages, 2379 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Wash Oil Composition on Degradation: A Comparative Analysis of “Light” and “Heavy” Oils

by Denis Miroshnichenko, Artem Bannikov, Leonid Bannikov, Olexandr Borisenko, Andrei Shishkin, Pavels Gavrilovs and Volodymyr Tertychnyi

Resources 2025, 14(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14010005 - 27 Dec 2024

Abstract

This study aims to address the limited understanding of wash oil degradation in benzene units by analysing changes in the composition and properties of fresh and operating oils from different manufacturers. The findings will provide insights into the degradation pathways and stability of [...] Read more.

This study aims to address the limited understanding of wash oil degradation in benzene units by analysing changes in the composition and properties of fresh and operating oils from different manufacturers. The findings will provide insights into the degradation pathways and stability of these oils. Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry was used to analyse the provided samples, and the dynamic viscosity of the oils was determined using a Brookfield LV DV2T rotational viscometer. During operation, the “heavy” oil (HO) becomes less volatile, while the ”light” oil (LO) becomes slightly more volatile. The viscosity of the HO increases 1.25 times during operation. The LO is characterised by a higher total concentration of alkyl derivatives (48 wt.% compared to 44 wt.% for the HO). LO is enriched with naphthalene and indene, while HO loses 1- and 2-methylnaphthalenes and shows an increase in the concentrations of dibenzofuran, fluorene, anthracene, and phenanthrene. The oxidation products of LO include oxidised alkyl groups, while HO shows oxidised non-substituted hydrocarbons. The practical value of such studies lies in guiding the selection of fresh oil under current operating conditions. LO is more resistant to degradation as an absorbent than heavier wash oil. Full article

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23 pages, 9067 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Chemistry of Hydrothermally Destabilized Rare-Metal and Radioactive Minerals in Deformed A-Type Granite in the Vicinity of Nugrus Shear Zone, South Eastern Desert, Egypt

by Adel A. Surour, Amira M. El-Tohamy and Gehad M. Saleh

Resources 2025, 14(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14010004 - 26 Dec 2024

Abstract

In the Wadi Nugrus area, south Eastern Desert of Egypt, A-type granite is highly deformed in a prominent NW-SE trending shear zone, likely related to the Najd shear system. Deformation of this post-collisional leucogranite allows the propagation of hydrothermal alterations due to fluid [...] Read more.

In the Wadi Nugrus area, south Eastern Desert of Egypt, A-type granite is highly deformed in a prominent NW-SE trending shear zone, likely related to the Najd shear system. Deformation of this post-collisional leucogranite allows the propagation of hydrothermal alterations due to fluid circulation inside the so-called “Nugrus Shear Zone (NSZ)”. This results in the remarkable destabilization of the magmatic dissemination of rare-metal and U-Th minerals in the granite. Relict magmatic minerals that survived destabilization are represented by (1) ferrocolumbite with 14–63–16.39 wt% FeO^t, (2) fresh igneous zircon, and (3) thorite. The destabilized ore minerals (hydrothermal) dominate over the fresh magmatic relict minerals. The former comprises the following: (1) altered columbite in the form of three distinct phases of niobates (fergusonite–petscheckite–uranopyrochlore), (2) altered thorite (Ce-bearing and P-F-rich), (3) betafite, (4) altered uranothorite, and (5) sulfides (mainly pyrite). It is evident that the destabilization of magmatic thorite can be distinguished into three stages of hydrothermal alteration, namely low-Zr Ce-bearing thorite (stage I), moderate-Zr Ce-bearing thorite (stage II), and high-Zr U-Nb-Y-bearing thorite (stage III). The two varieties of Ce-bearing thorite are sodic with 1.33–2.28 wt% and 1.51–1.80 wt% Na₂O, respectively, whereas the U-Nb-Y-bearing thorite is Na₂O-poor (0.06–0.07 wt%). Similarly, thorite in stages I and II are Ca-, P-, F-, and S-rich. Considerable P₂O₅ content (up to ~17 wt%) is reported in stage II Ce-bearing thorite, whereas stage III thorite is Si-rich (14.56–18.79 wt% SiO₂). Upon hydrothermal destabilization, the three niobate minerals replacing the dissemination of magmatic ferrocolumbite become enriched in UO₂ (up to 15.24 wt%, 7.86 wt%, and 10.88 wt%, respectively), and similarly, ThO₂ (up to 7.13 wt%, 5.71 wt%, and 9.52 wt%, respectively). Hydrothermal destabilization results in the complete dissolution of magmatic fluorite and phosphate minerals at pH = 2–7. This furnishes a source of Ca, P, Ce, Y, F, and Cl in the hydrothermal solution to destabilize/collapse the structure of magmatic ore minerals, particularly ferrocolumbite and thorite. Free elements in the hydrothermal solution are responsible for the crystallization of P- and F-rich Ce-bearing thorite minerals in three stages, as well as abnormal Y₂O₃ enrichment in three resulting niobates that contain up to 6.03 wt%, 2.93 wt%, and 2.65 wt%, respectively. The fresh undeformed Nugrus leucogranite is sulfide-poor. In contrast, sulfides are enriched in the deformed leucogranite inside the NSZ. Also, the intimate relationship of sulfides with destabilized rare-element minerals indicates the destabilization of these minerals during the hydrothermal stage under reduced conditions. Finally, the proposed paragenetic sequence suggests that most ore minerals are magmatic or hydrothermal primarily. In contrast, supergene minerals such as goethite, Fe-oxyhydroxide, altered betafite, and altered uranothorite are the least abundant. Full article

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

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19 pages, 2005 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimizing Growth and Bioactive Compound Production in Split Gill Mushroom (Schizophyllum commune) Using Methyl Jasmonate

by Preuk Chutimanukul, Siripong Sukdee, Kittichai Boonmee, Ornprapa Thepsilvisut, Onmanee Prajuabjinda, Ubonwan Saesiw, Pattama Sriumpai and Hiroshi Ehara

Resources 2025, 14(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14010003 - 26 Dec 2024

Abstract

The split gill mushroom (Schizophyllum commune) is a valuable natural resource with high nutritional value and diverse bioactive metabolites, underscoring its potential for sustainable applications. By applying elicitors, this study highlights the quality enhancement of S. commune fruiting bodies, a commercially [...] Read more.

The split gill mushroom (Schizophyllum commune) is a valuable natural resource with high nutritional value and diverse bioactive metabolites, underscoring its potential for sustainable applications. By applying elicitors, this study highlights the quality enhancement of S. commune fruiting bodies, a commercially significant resource. While elicitors have been shown to stimulate beneficial bioactive compound production, research on their use in S. commune remains limited. This study applied methyl jasmonate (MeJA) at various concentrations (0, 4, 13, 22, 31, and 40 µM) to optimize growth, improve nutritional value, promote triterpenoid and phenolic compound synthesis, and boost antioxidant activity in S. commune. The results demonstrated that MeJA’s effects on growth and bioactive compounds are concentration-dependent. A concentration of 22 µM was identified as the most effective, resulting in the highest growth performance, including cap diameter (2.01 cm), fresh weight (24.10 g), and biological efficiency (15.21%). Furthermore, all MeJA treatments significantly enhanced triterpenoid, phenolic compound, and antioxidant activity compared to the control. These findings present a promising approach to enhance the sustainable use of S. commune as a natural resource by improving its quality and bioactive properties. Additionally, this research contributes to understanding the role of MeJA in promoting the growth and production of bioactive compounds in mushrooms, offering insights for advancing mushroom-based natural resource management. Full article

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

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14 pages, 1161 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Hop Residue Reuse on the Chemical and Sensory Properties of Craft Beer

by Cesar I. Mejia-Llontop, Carlos E. Tirado-Rodríguez, Alanis Acosta-Baca, Maylee Aguayo-Flores, Manuel Ascate-Pasos, Carmen Ayala-Jara, Gilbert Rodriguez, Eudes Villanueva and Elza Aguirre

Resources 2025, 14(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14010002 - 26 Dec 2024

Abstract

Hops are an important component of beer brewing, providing aromatic and bittering properties that are essential to consumer appeal. A significant amount of hop residue is generated in the dry-hop brewing process that cannot be reused due to bittering residues that disqualify them [...] Read more.

Hops are an important component of beer brewing, providing aromatic and bittering properties that are essential to consumer appeal. A significant amount of hop residue is generated in the dry-hop brewing process that cannot be reused due to bittering residues that disqualify them as animal feed or other products. The purpose of this research was to reuse four varieties of hop waste (Citra, Mosaic, Hallertau Blanc, and Mandarina Bavaria) through a repalletization process with the objective of integrating them into a new craft beer brewing process. Chemical properties such as the phenolic content, antioxidant capacity, and α- and β-acids were significantly reduced (p < 0.05) due to the reuse of the repelletized hops, leading to a decrease in the bitterness levels in all of the craft beers brewed with dry-hop residues. Finally, the sensory study conducted with non-habitual craft beer consumers revealed significant general acceptability for beers brewed with repelletized dry-hop residues (Mandarina Bavaria, Citra, and Mosaic). The reuse of hop residues for brewing presents a promising opportunity for further development in the food industry. Full article

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

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16 pages, 6561 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Strategic Resource Extraction and Recycling from Waste: A Pathway to Sustainable Resource Conservation

by Inna Pitak, Anastasiia Sholokhova, Arūnas Baltušnikas and Rita Kriūkienė

Resources 2025, 14(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14010001 - 25 Dec 2024

Abstract

This study examines calcium extraction from Bottom Ash (BA) and the use of Solid Residue (SR) as a substitute for White Lump Clay (WLC) in brick production. Experimental analyses identified calcium and silicon as the main elements in BA, with 50% of calcium [...] Read more.

This study examines calcium extraction from Bottom Ash (BA) and the use of Solid Residue (SR) as a substitute for White Lump Clay (WLC) in brick production. Experimental analyses identified calcium and silicon as the main elements in BA, with 50% of calcium carbonate recovered through leaching. SR was a viable alternative to WLC in ceramic bricks, as SEM-EDS and FTIR analyses revealed changes in composition and microstructure. This approach promotes circular economy principles by recovering resources and reducing waste. Calcium extraction from BA can produce 29,000 tons of CaCO₃ annually for industrial use, while substituting SR for WLC in brick production could replace 30% of clay, saving 1500 tons of clay and producing millions of bricks annually. Less than 50% of incinerated Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) would require landfilling. The process supports sustainable construction by conserving natural resources, reducing landfill waste, and lowering CO₂ emissions. It offers annual cost savings of 2,639,250 USD and preserves 74,812.5 tons of resources through waste and clay reduction. By demonstrating a scalable model for waste valorization, this research aligns with global goals for sustainable development, resource efficiency, and ecological balance. Full article

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17 pages, 1031 KiB

Open AccessReview

Dairy Goat Production: Socioeconomic, Environmental, and Cultural Importance Across Time (1970–2022) and Possible Scenarios (2050)

by Cayetano Navarrete-Molina, Cesar A. Meza-Herrera, Angeles De Santiago-Miramontes, Luis M. Valenzuela-Núñez, Ruben I. Marin-Tinoco, Miguel A. Soto-Cardenas and Maria A. Sariñana-Navarrete

Resources 2024, 13(12), 177; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13120177 - 20 Dec 2024

Abstract

Inequality, malnutrition, poverty, and environmental degradation are some of the global challenges facing humanity. These are aggravated in the context of climate change (CC), envisioning as a utopia to guarantee food security without risking sustainability. Considering the increase in scientific attention on dairy [...] Read more.

Inequality, malnutrition, poverty, and environmental degradation are some of the global challenges facing humanity. These are aggravated in the context of climate change (CC), envisioning as a utopia to guarantee food security without risking sustainability. Considering the increase in scientific attention on dairy goat production (DGP), we aimed to carry out an exhaustive analysis regarding the evolution of DGP to determine both its socioeconomic and cultural importance during the period 1970–2022 and its possible scenarios for 2050. Over the last half century (1970–2022), dairy goats (DG; 214.01 million heads) have shown an inventory growth of 182%, and this is estimated to increase by 53.37% over the next 28 years (2023–2050). While DGP increased 196% during 1970–2022, it is projected to increase around 71.29% by 2050. Notably, however, the economic value of DGP almost quadrupled (+375%) during 1991–2022, and the same trend is estimated for 2023–2050. Historically, Asia has excelled in both goat inventory and goat milk production volume. This research highlights the crucial role of both goats and DG in the socioeconomic issues in various regions of the world, as they most often represent the only source of income for millions of smallholder families, particularly in developing countries. In the face of CC challenges, goats in general, and DG in particular, show an exceptional potential to be considered the “animal of the future” due to their refined and sophisticated ethological, adaptive, and physiological plasticity under generally clean, green, and ethical production schemes, mainly in marginal contexts in the arid and semi-arid zones of the world. Full article

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

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18 pages, 1291 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Environmental Evaluation of Chemical Plastic Waste Recycling: A Life Cycle Assessment Approach

by Giuliana Vinci, Laura Gobbi, Daniela Porcaro, Sara Pinzi, Miguel Carmona-Cabello and Marco Ruggeri

Resources 2024, 13(12), 176; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13120176 - 20 Dec 2024

Abstract

Due to the high environmental burden of plastics, this study aimed to evaluate the environmental performance of chemical recycling of plastic waste through Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), focusing on pyrolysis oil production as the primary output. A pyrolysis plant in Almería, Spain, was [...] Read more.

Due to the high environmental burden of plastics, this study aimed to evaluate the environmental performance of chemical recycling of plastic waste through Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), focusing on pyrolysis oil production as the primary output. A pyrolysis plant in Almería, Spain, was chosen as a case study. The results indicate that the production of 1 L of pyrolysis oil from plastic waste generates about 0.032 kg CO₂ eq and a water consumption of 0.031 m³, with other impact categories registering values of less than 0.1 kg/L or 0.01 m²a crop eq/L, reducing impacts in 17 out of 18 categories compared to fossil diesel. In addition, its chemical and physical properties, close to those of fossil diesel, suggest its suitability for internal combustion engines, although as a blend rather than a complete substitute. Chemical recycling also appears to be more environmentally favorable than incineration and landfilling in all 18 impact categories, achieving significant benefits, including a reduction in global warming of −3849 kg CO₂ eq/ton, ionizing radiation of −22.4 kBq Co-60 eq/ton, and fossil resource consumption of −1807.5 kg oil eq/ton. These results, thus, highlight the potential dual role of chemical recycling of plastic waste, both in mitigating environmental impacts and in supporting circular economy goals by reducing demand for virgin plastics. However, although it appears to be a promising technology, challenges associated with high energy requirements, raw material variability, and scale infrastructure still need to be addressed to ensure industrial competitiveness and significant environmental benefits. 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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15 pages, 2707 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Flash Vacuum Expansion Process Increases the Bioaccessibility and Stability of Antioxidant Compounds in Papaya Puree During Digestion

by Teresita de Jesús Castillo-Romero, Leticia Xochitl López-Martínez, Marco Antonio Salgado-Cervantes, Eber Addí Quintana-Obregón, Gustavo Adolfo González-Aguilar and Manuel Vargas-Ortiz

Resources 2024, 13(12), 175; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13120175 - 20 Dec 2024

Abstract

Among all fruits, the papaya ranks among the most significant, occupying fourth place in terms of marketing volumes. The papaya encounters various deterioration issues throughout the marketing chain, which results in the loss of bioactive phytochemicals in the fruit’s pulp. Making puree is [...] Read more.

Among all fruits, the papaya ranks among the most significant, occupying fourth place in terms of marketing volumes. The papaya encounters various deterioration issues throughout the marketing chain, which results in the loss of bioactive phytochemicals in the fruit’s pulp. Making puree is the best way to make papaya pulp last longer, but processing can break down antioxidants like phenolic compounds (which are mostly stored in cell vacuoles) and carotenoids (which are stored in chromoplasts). The flash vacuum expansion process (FVE) promotes an expansion of the water present in the vacuoles, which generates cell rupture and consequently, the release of intracellular components. Because cell rupture is promoted from within the cell, the expulsion of bioactive compounds is more efficient and can therefore increase their bioaccessibility. Our results show that the FVE process increased the antioxidant capacity of the purees (measured by TEAC, FRAP, and DPPH assays) before and during digestion. Our results show that the FVE process significantly enhances the bioaccessibility and stability of antioxidant compounds, providing a clear advantage over the conventional method. Fruit purees generated by FVE can be an ingredient that increases the functionality of foods (juices, nectars, purees, ice creams, and yogurt) aimed at people with digestive problems, baby food, or the use of fruits with low commercial value. Full article

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

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12 pages, 1637 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Electricity Production Landscape of Run-of-River Power Plants in Germany

by Reinhold Lehneis, Falk Harnisch and Daniela Thrän

Resources 2024, 13(12), 174; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13120174 - 19 Dec 2024

Abstract

Spatially and temporally resolved data on electricity production from run-of-river plants are very useful to study various aspects of this renewable energy at both the local and regional scale. In the absence of disaggregated feed-in data from such power plants in Germany, it [...] Read more.

Spatially and temporally resolved data on electricity production from run-of-river plants are very useful to study various aspects of this renewable energy at both the local and regional scale. In the absence of disaggregated feed-in data from such power plants in Germany, it is necessary to apply numerical simulations to determine their electricity production for a desired region and time period. We show how a simulation model can be created using publicly accessible power plant data and information from transmission system operators as model input. The developed physical model is applied to an ensemble of 7974 run-of-river plants in Germany, including those with and without water storage facilities, to simulate their electricity production for the year 2021. The resulting and spatially aggregated simulation results correlate well with the official total electricity feed-in from run-of-river plants in Germany, as well as on smaller spatial scales such as the city of Hamburg. Such disaggregated time series can be used to assess the renewable hydropower generation at different spatial and temporal levels, as each power plant is simulated with its geographical and technical data. Moreover, this study presents the electricity production landscape of run-of-river power plants in Germany as a highly resolved map and at the federal state level with related energy indicators, which enables a better monitoring of this renewable energy. The obtained results also support the expectation that the existing run-of-river plants will play an important role in the future transformation and decarbonization of the German power sector. Full article

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21 pages, 6160 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Method for the Appraisal of Natural Values Serving the Preparation of a Landscape Audit: A Case Study from Poland

by Anna Mazur and Krystyna Kurowska

Resources 2024, 13(12), 173; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13120173 - 19 Dec 2024

Abstract

The article focuses on the development of a universal method for the appraisal of values of a natural landscape in administrative division units. The Dobre Miasto municipality serves as a case study. The municipality lies in the heart of Warmia, a region with [...] Read more.

The article focuses on the development of a universal method for the appraisal of values of a natural landscape in administrative division units. The Dobre Miasto municipality serves as a case study. The municipality lies in the heart of Warmia, a region with centuries-long historical tradition. This paper also mentions solutions adopted in Poland in the consequence of the ratification of the European Landscape Convention. Following many years of research, changes in the natural landscape and directions in the measures taken to protect it were traced. In the face of current transformations in space, efforts to protect and conserve natural wealth are difficult. Compromises are unavoidable for the sake of saving the region’s valuable natural assets while allowing its development. The aim of this study was to identify the natural values in the chosen research area, and to develop a method for their appraisal. The identification of the natural elements deserving protection substantiated rational location decisions in space. This is particularly important in the case of a natural landscape, which is difficult to evaluate and whose estimated value is often a result of a subjective assessment. The valorisation of the natural landscape in the chosen municipality allowed us to identify new areas, which at present are outside the boundaries of legally protected areas but which deserve protection owing to their highly valuable natural properties. The proposed method for the appraisal of natural values can be used in shaping a spatial policy, in spatial planning and development, and, above all, in the preparation of landscape audits. The proposed method fills the gap in the legal regulations adopted in Poland in the field of strengthening the protection of natural and cultural values since no comprehensive guidelines for the evaluation of landscape attributes for the purposes of landscape protection and development have been elaborated thus far. Full article

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24 pages, 1173 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

From Vineyard to Value: A Circular Economy Approach to Viticulture Waste

by Mariagrazia Provenzano, Francesco Pacchera, Cecilia Silvestri and Alessandro Ruggieri

Resources 2024, 13(12), 172; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13120172 - 17 Dec 2024

Abstract

Due to its significant environmental impact, the wine industry is one of the most analyzed agri-food sectors in terms of sustainability. These include waste emission, intensive land use, and high transport-related carbon footprint. The circular economy represents an opportunity to mitigate these impacts [...] Read more.

Due to its significant environmental impact, the wine industry is one of the most analyzed agri-food sectors in terms of sustainability. These include waste emission, intensive land use, and high transport-related carbon footprint. The circular economy represents an opportunity to mitigate these impacts by promoting the valorization of wine waste. Through a systematic literature review, this research provides an overview of studies from 2018 to 2024 that deal with the transformation of wine waste, in particular vinification residues, into resources. The research covers the commodity sectors in which wine waste is reused, such as Food, Agriculture, and Energy. The analysis of the sample reveals that the countries in which the issue of valorization of wine waste is most studied are Italy, Spain, and Portugal. The study encourages a better integration of waste in the wine sector into business practices by assessing the environmental and economic impact. From a management point of view, the aim is to inform companies about effective waste management practices in order to promote the development of a more sustainable wine industry. Future research will focus on evaluating the effectiveness of these valorization pathways, also through case studies of good practice in implementing a circular business model. 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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28 pages, 4684 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Exploring the Role of Artificial Intelligence in Wastewater Treatment: A Dynamic Analysis of Emerging Research Trends

by Javier De la Hoz-M, Edwan Anderson Ariza-Echeverri and Diego Vergara

Resources 2024, 13(12), 171; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources13120171 - 16 Dec 2024

Abstract

Wastewater treatment is a critical process for ensuring water quality and public health, particularly in the context of increasing environmental challenges such as pollution and water scarcity. Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative technology capable of optimizing various wastewater treatment processes, [...] Read more.

Wastewater treatment is a critical process for ensuring water quality and public health, particularly in the context of increasing environmental challenges such as pollution and water scarcity. Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative technology capable of optimizing various wastewater treatment processes, such as contaminant removal, energy consumption, and cost-efficiency. This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of AI applications in wastewater treatment, utilizing data from Scopus and Web of Science covering 4335 publications from 1985 to 2024. Utilizing machine learning techniques such as neural networks, fuzzy logic, and genetic algorithms, the analysis reveals key trends in the role of the AI in optimizing wastewater treatment processes. The results show that AI has increasingly been applied to solve complex problems like membrane fouling, nutrient removal, and biofouling control. Regional contributions highlight a strong focus on advanced oxidation processes, microbial sludge treatment, and energy optimization. The Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) model further identifies emerging topics such as real-time process monitoring and AI-driven effluent prediction as pivotal areas for future research. The findings provide valuable insights into the current state and future potential of AI technologies in wastewater management, offering a roadmap for researchers exploring the integration of AI to address sustainability challenges in the field. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Wastewater Reuse)

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