Resources

17 pages, 321 KB

Open AccessReview

Aquatic Plants for Blue Protein Innovation: Bridging Nutrition, Sustainability, and Food Security

by Anil Kumar Anal, Abhishek Khadka, Daniel Lee Rice, Nabindra Kumar Shrestha, Johnmel Abrogena Valerozo, Khin Nyein Chan Zaw and Ryunosuke Nagase

Resources 2025, 14(12), 192; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14120192 - 18 Dec 2025

Viewed by 806

Abstract

The global population is rising sharply and is expected to be 10 billion by 2050. Nutrition security, especially protein, is a major concern, as it is one of the essential ingredients for body growth. However, consumption of meat is unsustainable, as the use [...] Read more.

The global population is rising sharply and is expected to be 10 billion by 2050. Nutrition security, especially protein, is a major concern, as it is one of the essential ingredients for body growth. However, consumption of meat is unsustainable, as the use of natural resources and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are relatively high compared to plant-based protein sources. Aquatic plants like duckweed, Azolla, and water spinach, as well as macroalgae and microalgae, contain good amounts of protein, ranging from 25% to 60% dry weight (DW) and comprising major essential amino acids (EAAs). These plants are rich in vitamins and minerals and possess antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and anti-fatigue properties. In addition, green food processing (GFP) technologies minimize the antinutritional factors, which in turn increase the bioaccessibility and biodigestibility of aquatic plants. Fermentation is one of the oldest known GFP methods. Recent advances include high-pressure processing, pulsed electric field, ultrasound-assisted, and microwave-assisted extraction, which are among the most promising techniques. Hence, government initiatives, as well as research and private sector collaboration for cultivation, processing, and advocating for such nutrient-dense food, are necessary. This will ensure sustainable production and consumption. Full article

24 pages, 3501 KB

Open AccessArticle

Low-Quality Coffee Beans Used as a Novel Biomass Source of Cellulose Nanocrystals: Extraction and Application in Sustainable Packaging

by Graziela dos Santos Paulino, Júlia Santos Pereira, Clara Suprani Marques, Kyssila Vitória Reis Vitalino, Victor G. L. Souza, Ananda Pereira Aguilar, Lucas Filipe Almeida, Taíla Veloso de Oliveira, Andréa de Oliveira Barros Ribon, Sukarno Olavo Ferreira, Eveline Teixeira Caixeta Moura, Deusanilde de Jesus Silva and Tiago Antônio de Oliveira Mendes

Resources 2025, 14(12), 191; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14120191 - 18 Dec 2025

Viewed by 314

Abstract

Most polymeric plastics used as food packaging are obtained from petroleum or made with non-biodegradable synthetic molecules, which slowly degrade and leach into the environment, resulting in the accumulation of microplastics along the trophic chains. To mitigate these impacts, biodegradable packaging derived from [...] Read more.

Most polymeric plastics used as food packaging are obtained from petroleum or made with non-biodegradable synthetic molecules, which slowly degrade and leach into the environment, resulting in the accumulation of microplastics along the trophic chains. To mitigate these impacts, biodegradable packaging derived from agro-industrial biomass residues has emerged as a promising alternative. In this study, bio-based methylcellulose films reinforced with cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) extracted from low-quality coffee beans were developed and fully characterized. The extracted CNCs presented a needle-like morphology, with an average height of 7.27 nm and a length of 221.34 nm, with 65.75% crystallinity, were stable at pH 7–8, and presented thermogravimetric mass loss of 8.0%. Methylcellulose films containing 0.6% w/w of CNC were produced by casting and characterized in terms of thermal, mechanical, and optical properties. Notably, the incorporation of CNCs resulted in significantly more flexible and less rigid films, as evidenced by the higher elongation at break (57.90%) and lower Young’s modulus (0.0015 GPa) compared to neat methylcellulose film. The tensile strength was not affected (p > 0.05). Additionally, the MCNC 0.6% films effectively blocked UV light in the 200–300 nm range without compromising transparency. Altogether, these findings underscore the MCNC 0.6% film as a flexible, biodegradable packaging material suitable for food industry application. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Resource Recovery and Valorisation from Agricultural Products and Wastes)

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29 pages, 379 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Environmental and Socioeconomic Impacts of Artisanal Gold Mining in Zimbabwe: Pathways Towards Sustainable Development and Community Resilience

by Moses Nyakuwanika and Manoj Panicker

Resources 2025, 14(12), 190; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14120190 - 17 Dec 2025

Viewed by 609

Abstract

While artisanal gold mining (AGM) has been credited as a sector that sustains many households in Zimbabwe, it has at the same time been criticized as the chief driver of ecological degradation and social vulnerability. This study qualitatively examines the environmental and socioeconomic [...] Read more.

While artisanal gold mining (AGM) has been credited as a sector that sustains many households in Zimbabwe, it has at the same time been criticized as the chief driver of ecological degradation and social vulnerability. This study qualitatively examines the environmental and socioeconomic impacts of AGM by conducting in-depth interviews with miners, residents, and policymakers across six central mining districts. The study findings indicate that the use of mercury has resulted in severe contamination of water bodies, while clearing land to pave the way for mining has led to severe deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and declining agricultural productivity due to the loss of fertile soils. It was also found that most AGMs were unregulated, and their unregulated operations have intensified health risks, social inequality, and land-use conflicts with the local community. This study provides an insight into how dependence on AGM has perpetuated a cycle of ecological degradation and poverty among many Zimbabweans. The study, therefore, attempts to combine community narratives with policy analysis, thereby proposing a framework for sustainable AGM in Zimbabwe. This involves advocating for the use of environmentally friendly technologies and promoting participatory environmental governance among all key stakeholders. The study contributes to achieving a balance between economic benefits and environmental management by advancing the discourse on sustainable development and community resilience in resource-dependent economies. Full article

18 pages, 9484 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison Between the Impact of Mineralogy and Pore Geometry on Acoustic Velocity in Carbonates: Insights from Global Dataset and Rock-Physics Modeling

by Ammar El-Husseiny

Resources 2025, 14(12), 189; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14120189 - 15 Dec 2025

Viewed by 352

Abstract

The characterization of carbonate subsurface reservoirs, which host significant natural resources such as water and hydrocarbon, is crucial for earth scientists and engineers. Key characterization methods include seismic and downhole sonic techniques. This study explores the relative influence of mineralogy versus pore geometry [...] Read more.

The characterization of carbonate subsurface reservoirs, which host significant natural resources such as water and hydrocarbon, is crucial for earth scientists and engineers. Key characterization methods include seismic and downhole sonic techniques. This study explores the relative influence of mineralogy versus pore geometry on acoustic velocity and velocity–porosity relationships in carbonate rocks, which is important for seismic and sonic interpretation in reservoir characterization. A global dataset from ten localities encompassing different carbonate lithologies—including limestones, fabric-preserving (FP) and non-fabric-preserving (NFP) dolostones, and siliceous carbonates—was analyzed using laboratory measurements and Differential Effective Medium (DEM) modeling. Results show that the mineralogy influence decreases with porosity, so it is limited only to tight rocks where dolostones show higher velocity than limestones while siliceous carbonates show the least velocity. As porosity increases, FP dolostones retain higher velocities, whereas NFP dolostones have comparable or lower velocities than limestones, contrary to expectations from mineral elastic properties. This behavior is mainly governed by pore geometry, as supported by petrographic analysis and DEM modeling. Siliceous carbonates display notably lower velocities, which is entirely attributed to smaller pore aspect ratios (about 50% less than in limestones) rather than mineralogical effects. Overall, this study highlights that pore geometry dominates over mineralogy in determining acoustic velocity within porous carbonates, providing a valuable framework for improving seismic and sonic-based porosity estimation across variable carbonate lithologies. Full article

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13 pages, 1237 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Solid Biofuel Production from Coffee Byproducts: Characterization and Pelletization of Husk and Parchment

by Shoraia Germani Winter, Antonio José Vinha Zanuncio, Amélia Guimarães Carvalho, Marcos Vinícius Ferreira, Olivia Pereira Lopes, Angélica de Cassia Oliveira Carneiro and Solange de Oliveira Araújo

Resources 2025, 14(12), 188; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14120188 - 12 Dec 2025

Viewed by 488

Abstract

Brazil is the world’s largest coffee producer, resulting in the production of 1 kg of husk and 0.5 kg of parchment for every 1 kg of coffee beans. Given the large amount of biomass and the constant need for energy production, this study [...] Read more.

Brazil is the world’s largest coffee producer, resulting in the production of 1 kg of husk and 0.5 kg of parchment for every 1 kg of coffee beans. Given the large amount of biomass and the constant need for energy production, this study raises the possibility of using waste for pellet production. Samples of coffee husks and parchment were characterized by moisture content (dry basis), proximate analysis (volatile matter, ash and fixed carbon), calorific value, elemental analysis, and thermogravimetry, and the pellets were characterized by moisture content (dry basis), bulk density, energy density, mechanical durability, percentage of fines, and hardness. The results were compared with the ISO 17225-6. The parchment had a higher carbon, 49.5%, C/N 45.1%, and lignin 26.2% and lower ashes 2.8% and extractives 14.2%, resulting in higher calorific value, while coffee husks obtained 46.5%, 26.3%, 24.6%, 5.5%, and 34.3%, respectively. Pellets produced with parchment had a higher density 622 kg/m³ and lower moisture content 10.5%, resulting in higher energy density. The parchment pellets met all the parameters of the ISO 17225-6, while the coffee husk pellets did not meet the parameters for moisture, which is less than 15%, and bulk density, greather than 600 kg/m³. Both types of biomass showed potential for pellet production, with further studies needed on coffee husks. Full article

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23 pages, 442 KB

Open AccessArticle

Natural Resource Rents and Economic Growth in Tunisia: Assessing the Role of Resource Diversification in Sustainable Development

by Nesrine Gafsi

Resources 2025, 14(12), 187; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14120187 - 11 Dec 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 411

Abstract

This paper examines the impact of natural resource rents on the economic growth of Tunisia between 1990 and 2023, emphasizing the aspect of resource diversification. The annual time-series data extracted from the World Bank’s World Development Indicators were analyzed using the Autoregressive Distributed [...] Read more.

This paper examines the impact of natural resource rents on the economic growth of Tunisia between 1990 and 2023, emphasizing the aspect of resource diversification. The annual time-series data extracted from the World Bank’s World Development Indicators were analyzed using the Autoregressive Distributed Lag model to outline both the short- and long-run dynamics. The results confirm the existence of a long-term relationship between economic growth and oil, natural gas, mineral, and forest rents. Among them, oil and forest rents have strong positive long-term impacts, whereas natural gas and mineral rents contribute relatively moderately due to the structural inefficiencies and absence of value-added activities in these sectors. It was also found that the labor force participation has been affecting growth adversely with continuous impacts, which are driven by skill mismatches, low productivity, and high unemployment, hence indicating structural labor market imbalance that weakens the growth effect of labor. On the other hand, capital formation is still one of the key drivers of long-term growth. The findings highlight the rationale for diversification of the economy, governance reforms, and sustainable management of resources. However, the study suffers from some limitations due to data availability and excluded institutional variables, apart from being narrowed to a single-country case study, which might affect the generalizability of the results. Future works could consider incorporating the indicators of governance, examining nonlinear effects, or expanding the analysis into a multi-country framework. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Innovative and Critical Issues in Natural Resource Management and Exploitation)

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15 pages, 2262 KB

Open AccessArticle

Economic Efficiency of Natural Resource Use in the Context of ESG Integration and the Circular Economy Transition

by Dinara Mukhiyayeva, Aigul Alibekova, Lyazzat Sembiyeva, Nadiia Shmygol, Bakhytzhamal Zhumatayeva and Dariga Khamitova

Resources 2025, 14(12), 186; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14120186 - 10 Dec 2025

Viewed by 464

Abstract

The global shift towards sustainable development and low-carbon growth has intensified the need for efficient management of natural resources. This study proposes an integrated economic assessment framework to evaluate how ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) integration and circular economy strategies influence resource productivity [...] Read more.

The global shift towards sustainable development and low-carbon growth has intensified the need for efficient management of natural resources. This study proposes an integrated economic assessment framework to evaluate how ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) integration and circular economy strategies influence resource productivity and long-term economic performance. The research focuses on the water–energy–land nexus as a critical driver of global economic systems. Using a combination of multi-criteria decision analysis (AHP/TOPSIS), material flow analysis (MFA), life-cycle assessment (LCA), and panel econometric modeling on a broad dataset of countries (2018–2023), we examine the relationship between resource efficiency, ESG adoption, and economic competitiveness. The results indicate that circular business models and strong ESG practices significantly reduce resource intensity, enhance total factor productivity, and strengthen economic resilience. Scenario modeling demonstrates that transitioning from linear to circular resource flows can yield substantial economic and ecological benefits, including a ~1–3% rise in GDP and a ~15–20% drop in resource intensity under a high-circularity scenario. These findings provide actionable insights for policymakers and businesses, emphasizing that sustainable resource governance is not only an environmental necessity but also a key driver of global economic transformation. Full article

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16 pages, 702 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Alternatives and Benchmarking for Implementations of Waste-to-Energy from Municipal Solid Waste: A Systematic Review

by Maria Soares de Lima, André Gobbi Farina, Nelson Kadel, Jr. and Miguel Afonso Sellitto

Resources 2025, 14(12), 185; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14120185 - 28 Nov 2025

Viewed by 824

Abstract

This article investigates technological choices for Waste-to-Energy (WtE) implementations in Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) management. It identified challenges and opportunities, thereby transforming the perspective of MSW from waste into a valuable resource. The methodology included a systematic literature review, following PICO and PRISMA [...] Read more.

This article investigates technological choices for Waste-to-Energy (WtE) implementations in Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) management. It identified challenges and opportunities, thereby transforming the perspective of MSW from waste into a valuable resource. The methodology included a systematic literature review, following PICO and PRISMA protocols. The analysis included 118 open-access review articles, published between 2018 and 2024, from Web of Science, Scopus, and ScienceDirect, concerning thermochemical, biochemical, and chemical technologies. Key challenges for new implementations include economic barriers, social issues, and regulatory shortcomings. Opportunities arise from education, supportive policies, and lessons learned from developed countries such as Germany and Japan. Limitations include the focus on specific databases and the potential oversight of data from other sources or unexamined data. Implications for future research should expand coverage as well as assess longer periods to enhance MSW valorization. Implications also include guidance for public managers and policymakers in formulating MSW management strategies, including policies, WtE technology selection, public education, and reducing misinformation to boost implementation and social acceptance of WtE initiatives. Effective WtE implementation improves public health and the environmental performance of regions by reducing landfills and generating economic and employment opportunities for vulnerable communities. The study’s originality lies in bridging a significant research gap on WtE implementation through a comprehensive examination of its challenges and opportunities. By integrating international experiences and lessons learned, it generates guidance for the sustainable development of MSW management systems. Full article

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26 pages, 6702 KB

Open AccessArticle

Heat Resources of Rivers in the Odra River Basin as a Potential Element Implement for Sustainable Development in Poland

by Mariusz Ptak, Mariusz Sojka, Muhammad Yousuf Jat Baloch and Teerachai Amnuaylojaroen

Resources 2025, 14(12), 184; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14120184 - 28 Nov 2025

Viewed by 677

Abstract

Seeking solutions that expand the energy market with new possibilities is a natural approach in the context of greenhouse gas emissions and associated climate change. One renewable energy source is water, which, in addition to kinetic energy, can also serve as a source [...] Read more.

Seeking solutions that expand the energy market with new possibilities is a natural approach in the context of greenhouse gas emissions and associated climate change. One renewable energy source is water, which, in addition to kinetic energy, can also serve as a source of heat. Having up-to-date hydrological data is crucial for assessing the scale and rate of water circulation in the environment, and subsequently its potential for economic use. This study reconstructs water temperature with the application of the hybrid air2water model for several dozens of rivers in the Odra basin (Central Europe) and, on this basis, estimates heat flux and subsequently its predictability across different temporal scales. The average annual heat flow of all the analyzed rivers was 3.36 × 10⁶ GJ and varied widely, from 0.09 to 51 × 10⁶ GJ, depending on the size of the river. On an annual scale, the heat flow corresponds to the distribution of seasonal changes in key variables (river discharge and water temperature) characteristic of rivers in the temperate zone. The lowest average heat flow was recorded in January (0.74 × 10⁶ GJ), and the highest in July (5.73 × 10⁶ GJ). Considering the obtained results and the spatial distribution of the river network in the analyzed area, it can be concluded that the energy transported by river systems may be regarded as a potential heat source. This is significant in the context of expanding opportunities for obtaining clean energy, which aligns with the current framework of the European Union’s policy aimed at achieving climate neutrality. Full article

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22 pages, 3015 KB

Open AccessArticle

Spatial Distribution, Health Risks and Heavy Metal Pollution Assessment of Surface Water Under Multiple Anthropogenic Stressors: Case Study in Middle Moulouya Watershed, Morocco

by Zarzouki Rachid, Nouayti Nordine, El Fadili Hamza, Krime Anas, Hasni Soufiane and Elisabete P. Carreiro

Resources 2025, 14(12), 183; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14120183 - 28 Nov 2025

Viewed by 758

Abstract

The worldwide issue of surface water contamination by heavy metals is a matter of great concern, as it has the potential to affect human health. This study intended to compute heavy metal contamination and human health risks in surface water using the following [...] Read more.

The worldwide issue of surface water contamination by heavy metals is a matter of great concern, as it has the potential to affect human health. This study intended to compute heavy metal contamination and human health risks in surface water using the following pollution indices: heavy metal pollution index (HPI), contamination index (CI), metal index (MI), ecological risk index (ERI), human health risk and statistical analysis. For this purpose, eleven water samples were gathered and analyzed by ICP-AES for trace metals such as Pb, As, Zn, Cd, Cu, and Ni. The results showed that heavy metal concentrations varied significantly throughout the study area, with Pb, As, and Cd levels exceeding the WHO limits for drinking purposes. Pollution indices indicated low to high water contamination, with HPI results ranging from 16.41 to 862.18 and from 12.76 to 774.03, above the critical value of 100, requiring serious interventions to reduce heavy metal pollution. MI results range from 0.90 to 20.92 and from 0.70 to 18.41 and CI values range from 0.34 to 20.38 and from 0.15 to 17.86 in the dry and wet periods, respectively, with different contamination levels observed throughout the study area; ERI showed low to considerable ecological risk. Nonetheless, the non-carcinogenic risk, THI < 1, indicates low health risks, while the carcinogenic risk for As and Cd was significantly higher than the negligible threshold of 10⁻⁶, suggesting tolerable health risks. However, managing the contaminated area and minimizing the metal concentrations and predominant routes through which metals impact human health should be priorities for long-term development and to establish a favorable environment. Full article

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39 pages, 14243 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Potential of the Vistula–Bug Interfluve Resources in the Context of the Sustainable Management of Non-Renewable Phosphorus Resources in Poland

by Beata Gebus-Czupyt, Miłosz Huber, Jacek Stienss, Greta Brancaleoni, Joanna Hryciuk, Urszula Maciołek, Krzysztof Siwek and Stanisław Chmiel

Resources 2025, 14(12), 182; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14120182 - 27 Nov 2025

Viewed by 1046

Abstract

Phosphorus is one of the elements necessary for life and the proper growth of organisms, including humans, yet its natural resources are very limited. The bioavailability of phosphorus is especially critical during the initial phases of plant growth. A deficiency at this stage [...] Read more.

Phosphorus is one of the elements necessary for life and the proper growth of organisms, including humans, yet its natural resources are very limited. The bioavailability of phosphorus is especially critical during the initial phases of plant growth. A deficiency at this stage cannot be fully compensated for later, even despite increased phosphorous supplementation. Global reserves of phosphate rocks, the main source of phosphorus used in fertilizer production, are gradually being depleted. This situation prompts the need to search for alternative sources and to pay closer attention to the sustainable management of available resources. In this article, we focus on the Vistula–Bug interfluve in southeastern Poland, where relatively high phosphate concentrations have been documented. Our goal is to present geochemical and mineralogical data from bedrock in the areas richest in phosphorus and to discuss their significance in the context of domestic phosphorous management, with particular reference to southeastern Poland. We also discuss phosphate fertilizer production in Poland and its use in agriculture as well as phosphorus content in groundwater and surface water in the study area, with emphasis on the most readily assimilable forms, orthophosphates. Finally, we address the challenges of sustainable phosphorous management at both the local and global scale. Full article

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31 pages, 1720 KB

Open AccessArticle

Increasing Valley Retention as an Element of Water Management: The Opinion of Residents of Southeastern Poland

by Krzysztof Kud and Aleksandra Badora

Resources 2025, 14(12), 181; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14120181 - 26 Nov 2025

Viewed by 641

Abstract

This study presents the results of an analysis of public perceptions of flood safety and river valley management in southeastern Poland. The aim of the study was to identify sociodemographic and spatial factors influencing preferences for two distinct river valley management models: the [...] Read more.

This study presents the results of an analysis of public perceptions of flood safety and river valley management in southeastern Poland. The aim of the study was to identify sociodemographic and spatial factors influencing preferences for two distinct river valley management models: the traditional, technical model (a strategy to move water away from people, MWAfP), and the ecosystem-based model (leaving space for the river, LSfR). A diagnostic survey was employed using a custom-designed questionnaire completed by 563 respondents residing in southeastern Poland. The research tool enabled the identification of flood risk perceptions and attitudes toward retention and flood control solutions. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and exploratory analysis was conducted to identify clusters of respondents and to test for differences between groups. Correlation analysis between items was performed, and a model of determinants of river valley management strategy selection was calculated using logistic regression. The results enabled the identification of three dominant perception clusters, reflecting diverse approaches to hydrological safety and environmental adaptation. The calculated logistic regression model includes a number of factors, among which significant determinants of the LSfR strategy selection include level of education, belief in the need to slow water runoff from the catchment, and support for the cultivation of permanent meadows in floodplains. The applied methodological approach allows for a comprehensive assessment of the social determinants of flood risk perception and supports the development of adaptive water management strategies in flood-prone areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Water and Soil Management Towards Climate Change Adaptation)

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25 pages, 1862 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Comparative Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of Conventional and Conservation Tillage Systems for Energy Crop Cultivation in Northern Italy

by Elena Tamisari, Daniela Summa, Fabio Vincenzi, Marta Massolin, Marco Rivaroli, Giuseppe Castaldelli and Elena Tamburini

Resources 2025, 14(12), 180; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14120180 - 26 Nov 2025

Viewed by 703

Abstract

Sustainable agriculture is a key pillar of the transition to agri-food systems that ensure global food security and the preservation of resources and ecosystems. This study evaluates the environmental impacts of different soil management practices in an agricultural system producing energy crops (maize [...] Read more.

Sustainable agriculture is a key pillar of the transition to agri-food systems that ensure global food security and the preservation of resources and ecosystems. This study evaluates the environmental impacts of different soil management practices in an agricultural system producing energy crops (maize and sorghum), using a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) approach, comparing conventional tillage, minimum tillage and no-tillage agricultural practices. The results show no significant differences between conventional and minimum tillage in most impact categories, while no-tillage shows a significant reduction in environmental impact of almost 50%. The hotspot analysis shows that organic fertilisation, especially the application of digestate, is the main contributor to environmental impacts, particularly in the Climate Change and Eutrophication categories. The results highlight key methodological challenges in LCA, such as the allocation of impacts between digestate and biogas production, and the need to integrate biological and chemical soil processes. While conservation agriculture can improve soil health, its environmental benefits are not fully captured by LCA. This study highlights the need to integrate LCA methodologies with complementary analyses to better assess the sustainability of agricultural practices and support informed decision-making. Full article

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28 pages, 9877 KB

Open AccessArticle

Performance Evaluation of Grid-Connected Photovoltaic System Under Climatic Conditions of Isthmus of Tehuantepec

by Michel Vázquez Vázquez, Reynaldo Iracheta Cortez, Adán Acosta Banda, Joel Pantoja Enríquez, Hugo Jorge Cortina Marrero, José Rafael Dorrego Portela, Liliana Hechavarría Difur, Quetzalcoatl Hernández-Escobedo, David Muñoz-Rodriguez and Alberto-Jesus Perea-Moreno

Resources 2025, 14(12), 179; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14120179 - 25 Nov 2025

Viewed by 692

Abstract

This article assesses the use of solar photovoltaic radiation as a renewable resource for a region of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec in Mexico, where a 163.2 kW grid-connected photovoltaic system is located. The study aims to understand the system’s performance under the specific [...] Read more.

This article assesses the use of solar photovoltaic radiation as a renewable resource for a region of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec in Mexico, where a 163.2 kW grid-connected photovoltaic system is located. The study aims to understand the system’s performance under the specific location conditions and to demonstrate the feasibility of installing photovoltaic systems in the Isthmus region. System monitoring was conducted for one year, with monthly and daily averages of normalized performance parameters determined. A three-month study of the power quality was conducted to assess compliance with interconnection and power quality requirements for power plants with a rated power Pn ≤ 500 kW. Results show higher energy production in the spring–summer months (138.946 MWh) than in autumn–winter (136.500 MWh), while the best overall performance occurred in autumn–winter (PR = 85% vs. 79.5% in spring–summer), probably due to cooler photovoltaic module temperatures. The final yield and PR indicate stable and predictable operation, even without maintenance, with PR = 82.3%. This supports the feasibility of photovoltaic installations in the southwestern region of Mexico. The present work is particularly relevant as it advances understanding of photovoltaic performance in understudied regions with substantial solar potential, such as the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, where policy prioritizes wind resource exploitation over solar energy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessment and Optimization of Energy Efficiency)

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13 pages, 2722 KB

Open AccessArticle

Carbon Emissions Associated with Organic Solid Waste Management in Developing Countries: A Brazilian Case Study

by Monica Carvalho, Samara Gonçalves Fernandes da Costa, Raíssa Barreto Lins, Milca Laís da Luz Macieira, Julia Lessa Feitosa Virgolino, Claudia Coutinho Nóbrega and Raphael Abrahao

Resources 2025, 14(12), 178; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14120178 - 25 Nov 2025

Viewed by 836

Abstract

Municipal solid waste (MSW) management in Brazil faces significant challenges related to waste segregation, collection efficiency, and environmentally adequate disposal. This study quantifies the carbon emissions associated with organic solid waste management, from 2022 to 2034, in the city of João Pessoa (Northeast [...] Read more.

Municipal solid waste (MSW) management in Brazil faces significant challenges related to waste segregation, collection efficiency, and environmentally adequate disposal. This study quantifies the carbon emissions associated with organic solid waste management, from 2022 to 2034, in the city of João Pessoa (Northeast Brazil). To this end, the Life Cycle Assessment methodology is applied to two scenarios: Scenario 1 (where all organic fraction is landfilled) and Scenario 2 (progressive implementation of composting for the domestic organic waste, starting in 2023, with increases each year until reaching 50% in 2034, and the remainder being landfilled). The latter is proposed based on the targets established in the Municipal Solid Waste Plan of João Pessoa. Projection for MSW considered a per capita rate of 0.86 kg/inhab.day, combined with a population growth rate of 1.92%/year. The results indicate that Scenario 1 emits 825 Mt CO₂-eq while Scenario 2 emits 704 Mt CO₂-eq for the study period (a reduction of 15%). A sensitivity analysis examined the effects of increasing transport distance (25–45 km) and the organic fraction of MSW (35–45%) on GHG emissions. Although total emissions rose under both conditions, the comparative environmental advantage of composting over landfilling remained stable. These results confirm the robustness of the analysis and reinforce composting as a low-carbon, effective strategy for managing urban waste. Full article

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16 pages, 3494 KB

Open AccessArticle

Integrating Soil Diagnostics and Life Cycle Assessment to Enhance Vineyard Sustainability on a Volcanic Island (Tenerife, Spain)

by Santiago M. Barroso Castillo, Ignacio de Martín-Pinillos Castellanos and Pablo Alonso González

Resources 2025, 14(12), 177; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources14120177 - 21 Nov 2025

Viewed by 772

Abstract

Viticulture in insular and volcanic environments faces mounting pressures from land abandonment, limited mechanization, and climate-related stress on soil and water resources. This study develops an integrated framework combining Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and soil diagnostics to evaluate the environmental and agronomic performance [...] Read more.

Viticulture in insular and volcanic environments faces mounting pressures from land abandonment, limited mechanization, and climate-related stress on soil and water resources. This study develops an integrated framework combining Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and soil diagnostics to evaluate the environmental and agronomic performance of vineyards on the island of Tenerife (Canary Islands, Spain). Fifteen representative vineyards located between 100 and 1000 m a.s.l. within the Tacoronte–Acentejo Denomination of Origin were assessed using the ReCiPe 2016 Midpoint (H) method and the Ecoinvent 3.8 database. The average carbon footprint reached 1.40 kg CO₂-eq kg⁻¹ of grapes, with diesel use for field access and transport contributing over 50% of total impacts and 64% of human toxicity. Copper-based fungicides accounted for ~11% of impacts, underscoring their environmental persistence. Soil analyses revealed widespread Ca/Mg imbalances and sporadic K deficiencies, while organic matter and pH levels were generally adequate. Importantly, vineyards with balanced nutrient ratios exhibited both higher yields and lower environmental burdens, suggesting that improved soil health can enhance eco-efficiency, primarily by supporting higher yields under similar input regimes. Targeted strategies—such as magnesium supplementation, reduced copper inputs, and low-carbon mobility practices—can therefore mitigate emissions while improving productivity. The proposed LCA–soil integration provides a replicable model for sustainable resource management and climate-resilient viticulture in other fragile and topographically constrained agricultural systems. Full article

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Resources, Volume 14, Issue 12 (December 2025) – 16 articles

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