Resources

20 pages, 2137 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comparing Microclimate Conditions Induced by Semi-Transparent and Conventional Agrivoltaic Systems and Their Effects on Arugula Response (Eruca vesicaria) in Southern Italy

by Hiba Chebli, Giovanna Dragonetti and Abdelouahid Fouial

Resources 2026, 15(2), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources15020033 - 23 Feb 2026

Viewed by 614

Abstract

Agrivoltaic Systems (AV) constitute a viable alternative to mitigate land-use competition by enabling the simultaneous production of agricultural crops and solar photovoltaic energy. However, the heterogeneous shading and microclimatic modifications induced by AV systems can alter solar radiation, crop physiological performance, and, consequently, [...] Read more.

Agrivoltaic Systems (AV) constitute a viable alternative to mitigate land-use competition by enabling the simultaneous production of agricultural crops and solar photovoltaic energy. However, the heterogeneous shading and microclimatic modifications induced by AV systems can alter solar radiation, crop physiological performance, and, consequently, its biomass. This study evaluated the effects of two static ground-mounted AV systems—semi-transparent (ST) and conventional opaque (CON) panels—on the growth, physiology, soil water variations, and yield of Arugula (Eruca vesicaria) cultivated in southern Italy from August to October 2022; compared with an open-field control (REF). Daily soil temperature and water content were monitored, alongside leaf-level gas exchange measurements at three vegetative stages. Global solar radiation was reduced by 70% under ST and 80% under CON, reducing Photosynthetically Active Radiation (PAR), transpiration, and net photosynthesis, while leaf water use efficiency remained comparable to REF. Sequential harvests showed that although yields were consistently highest in REF, ST 50% and CON 50% exhibited partial recovery in fresh and dry biomass by the third cutting, reflecting the mitigating effect of seasonal temperature declines on shading. Notably, soil water uniformity improved under AV systems, reaching 90% under ST and 94% under CON compared with 85% in REF, due to reduced evaporative losses and enhanced lateral soil water redistribution. Overall, while AV-induced shading limits radiation and yield in short-cycle leafy arugula, microclimate modulation under AV systems can enhance soil water distribution and partially buffer growth under less favorable seasonal conditions. These findings highlight the trade-offs between crop productivity and resource-use efficiency in AV systems and emphasize the importance of tailoring their design to crop type and local climatic conditions, providing valuable guidance for future experimental research and for policymakers aiming to support sustainable agrivoltaic deployment. Full article

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33 pages, 3131 KB

Open AccessReview

Analysis of Modern Challenges and Technological Solutions in Natural Gas Production at Fields with Complex Geological Structure: A Review

by Tatyana Kukharova, Pavel Maltsev, Sergey Abramkin and Igor Novozhilov

Resources 2026, 15(2), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources15020032 - 16 Feb 2026

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1165

Abstract

Due to the depletion of traditional hydrocarbon fields in the Russian Federation, the development of structurally complex fields is currently a pressing issue. The challenge is to ensure a high gas recovery factor (GRF). This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the scientific [...] Read more.

Due to the depletion of traditional hydrocarbon fields in the Russian Federation, the development of structurally complex fields is currently a pressing issue. The challenge is to ensure a high gas recovery factor (GRF). This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the scientific and technical literature, including a classification of factors affecting gas recovery; a review of existing approaches to neutralising their impact; and the identification of unsolved challenges and promising research areas at the pore, layer, and field scales. The study identified and classified the key factors affecting gas recovery. It was determined that, from the standpoint of automating gas production processes, changes in reservoir pressure are the key factor influencing gas recovery. Promising solutions are proposed, including the implementation of digital technologies, machine learning, proxy models, and the concept of digital twins. Unresolved challenges and research gaps are identified. The study results generalise existing knowledge on the challenges and promising approaches to improving the efficiency of developing the resource potential of fields with complex geological structures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Exploitation and Underground Storage of Oil and Gas)

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35 pages, 4522 KB

Open AccessReview

Water Resources and Environmental Sustainability: Current Challenges and Future Perspectives

by Samia Rahman Moon, Md. Mahbubur Rahman, Aminur Rahman, Aftab Ahmad Khan, Muhammad Altaf Nazir, Md. Ariful Islam and Md. Abdulla-Al-Mamun

Resources 2026, 15(2), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources15020031 - 12 Feb 2026

Viewed by 2614

Abstract

Water resources are the key to human well-being, economic growth, and ecosystems, but the growing pressure on them is caused by climate change, high population rates, industrial development, and unsustainable consumption. The quality of water degradation, overexploitation of groundwater, and the growing water [...] Read more.

Water resources are the key to human well-being, economic growth, and ecosystems, but the growing pressure on them is caused by climate change, high population rates, industrial development, and unsustainable consumption. The quality of water degradation, overexploitation of groundwater, and the growing water scarcity pose a significant threat to the sustainability of the environment, as well as international security. This review examines key drivers and challenges in water resources management, such as climate variability, pollution by traditional and emerging contaminants, lack of governance, and cross-boundary conflicts. It also discusses innovative solutions like advanced water treatment technologies, reuse and recycling systems, nature-based approaches, smart monitoring networks, and integrated policy frameworks that can contribute to a circular and sustainable water economy. In addition, the interdisciplinary approach, climate-adaptive infrastructure, enhanced governance, and increased international collaboration are also highlighted as necessary to attain resilient and equitable water systems. Through a balance between policy innovation and community participation and technological progress, water resource management will be able to shift towards ensuring environmental sustainability and also towards enhancing the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Approaches in Sustainable Water Resources Cycle Management)

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13 pages, 1556 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Olive Tree (Olea europaea) Pruning Autohydrolysis: FTIR Analysis, and Energy Potential

by Idalina Domingos, Miguel Ferreira, José Ferreira and Bruno Esteves

Resources 2026, 15(2), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources15020030 - 11 Feb 2026

Viewed by 681

Abstract

Olive trees cultivated in the Viseu region (Portugal) were used in the present work. This study investigates the compositional characteristics and hydrothermal behavior of olive branches (OB) and olive leaves (OL) under autohydrolysis, aiming to assess their potential for biorefinery applications. Chemical analysis [...] Read more.

Olive trees cultivated in the Viseu region (Portugal) were used in the present work. This study investigates the compositional characteristics and hydrothermal behavior of olive branches (OB) and olive leaves (OL) under autohydrolysis, aiming to assess their potential for biorefinery applications. Chemical analysis revealed that during autohydrolysis (140–180 °C, 15–30 min), OL exhibited greater solubilization than OB, consistent with their higher extractive content. Increasing the temperature promoted selective hemicellulose removal and partial cellulose degradation, leading to a relative enrichment of lignin in the solid residues. Nevertheless, the cellulose content of olive branches for 180 °C and 30 min hydrolysis increased. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed progressive structural rearrangements, including enhanced hydroxyl exposure, carbonyl formation, and lignin condensation, indicating the transformation of the solid phase toward more aromatic and thermally stable structures. Autohydrolysis slightly increased the higher heating value of the solid residues while acid-catalyzed liquefaction markedly increased, exceeding those of both native and technical lignins. These results suggest extensive carbon enrichment and oxygen removal during liquefaction. Overall, autohydrolysis proved effective for hemicellulose solubilization and sugar recovery, while liquefaction favored energy densification and lignin condensation. The distinct behaviors of OB and OL highlight the importance of tailoring processing conditions to each feedstock type. Both materials show strong potential as renewable resources for bioenergy and value-added carbon-based products within an integrated olive biomass biorefinery framework. Full article

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34 pages, 14603 KB

Open AccessArticle

Genesis of Gold Mineralization at Rodruin Prospect, Eastern Desert, Egypt: Evaluating Metamorphic vs. Magmatic Fluid Contributions

by Abdelhalim S. Mahmoud, Hanaa A. El-Dokouny, Mai A. El-Lithy, Ali Shebl, Maher Dawoud, Farouk Sayed and Mohamed M. Ghoneim

Resources 2026, 15(2), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources15020029 - 9 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1221

Abstract

This study investigates the genesis of gold mineralization at the Rodruin prospect in the central Eastern Desert (CED) of Egypt, with the aim of constraining the relative contributions of metamorphic and magmatic fluids to ore formation. Gold mineralization at Rodruin is hosted by [...] Read more.

This study investigates the genesis of gold mineralization at the Rodruin prospect in the central Eastern Desert (CED) of Egypt, with the aim of constraining the relative contributions of metamorphic and magmatic fluids to ore formation. Gold mineralization at Rodruin is hosted by quartz–carbonate veins emplaced within a shear zone that transects low-grade metasedimentary sequences intruded by Ediacaran post-tectonic granitoids. It exhibits characteristics transitional between orogenic turbidite-hosted and polymetallic vein-type mineralization. Although metamorphic devolatilization is interpreted to have generated the dominant ore-forming fluids, adjacent granitoid intrusions acted primarily as a thermal engine, with only a limited direct input of magmatic-hydrothermal fluids. This interpretation is supported by the occurrence of magmatic-affiliated mineral inclusions (monazite, cassiterite, and zircon) coupled with generally low concentrations of trace elements typically enriched in granitic magmatic-hydrothermal fluids (Sb, Bi, Mo, W, Sn, Nb, and Ta), collectively indicating a subordinate magmatic contribution. Rare earth element (REE) patterns of the ore samples closely resemble those of the nearby granitoids, displaying LREE enrichment; however, a distinct positive Eu anomaly is restricted to the ore assemblages and is attributed to hydrothermal feldspar alteration supporting magmatic involvement in ore formation. Carbon and oxygen isotope compositions (δ¹³C = −6.6 to −2.36‰; δ¹⁸O = +15.7 to +19.7‰), together with REE signatures comparable to primitive mantle values and textural evidence for synchronous sulfide–carbonate precipitation, manifested by rhythmic banding of carbonates and sulfides unequivocally indicate a hydrothermal–metasomatic origin. Collectively, these lines of evidence support a hybrid metamorphic–magmatic model in which gold and associated base metals were predominantly transported by metamorphic fluids, whose mobilization and focusing were enhanced by the thermal influence of Younger granitic intrusions, whereas magmatic-hydrothermal fluids contributed only a minor proportion to the overall metal budget. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mineral Resource Management 2025: Assessment, Mining and Processing)

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30 pages, 5280 KB

Open AccessArticle

Integrated Sustainability Assessment of a Rice Mill Biorefinery: From Waste Valorization to Circular Economy Pathways

by Natalia Salgado-Aristizabal, Juan D. Galvis-Nieto, Danya K. Jurado-Erazo, Carlos A. Cardona-Alzate and Carlos E. Orrego-Alzate

Resources 2026, 15(2), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources15020028 - 9 Feb 2026

Viewed by 1043

Abstract

Rice processing generates substantial residual biomass globally—about 170 million tons of husk, 62–71 million tons of bran and 23–39 million tons of broken rice annually—which remains largely underutilized and creates environmental burdens and lost economic opportunities. This study was conducted to address the [...] Read more.

Rice processing generates substantial residual biomass globally—about 170 million tons of husk, 62–71 million tons of bran and 23–39 million tons of broken rice annually—which remains largely underutilized and creates environmental burdens and lost economic opportunities. This study was conducted to address the necessity for integrated sustainability assessments of rice mill biorefineries. The focus of this study is on transitioning from a global context of residual biomass generation to a local-scale application in small and medium mills (100–300 tons/day). We apply a resource-centric framework, combining process simulation, techno-economic analysis, and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA—selected for its capacity to quantify trade-offs and avoid burden-shifting across multiple impact categories) with Social-LCA. Five valorization scenarios are assessed. Results demonstrate that biorefinery pathways fundamentally alter supply provision: husk cogeneration boosts energy self-sufficiency (SGI = 12.54), displacing fossil fuels, while silica and nutrient recovery create new, local material flows, substituting for virgin resources. However, chemically intensive routes increase human toxicity impacts (up to 4.0 × 10⁻¹ kg 1,4-DB eq/kg) despite product diversification. Social analysis reveals a tension between worker preferences for advanced technology and community priorities for low-chemical, employment-generating options. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis identifies a diversified configuration (oil, flour, feed, cogeneration) as most robust, optimizing overall resource productivity and circularity. This work transitions the conceptual model of a rice mill from a linear processor to a multi-output bio-resource hub, offering actionable pathways to enhance regional energy, mineral, and nutrient security through circular economy implementation. Full article

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16 pages, 6103 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Potential Heat Resources in Stratified Lakes in Poland in the Era of the Search for Clean Energy Sources

by Mariusz Ptak, Teerachai Amnuaylojaroen, Bogumił Nowak, Soufiane Haddout and Mariusz Sojka

Resources 2026, 15(2), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources15020027 - 5 Feb 2026

Viewed by 764

Abstract

The emission of greenhouse gases associated with the combustion of hydrocarbons is a key factor in climate change, and in this context, increasing emphasis is being placed on the development of clean energy sources. The novel contribution of the article lies in identifying [...] Read more.

The emission of greenhouse gases associated with the combustion of hydrocarbons is a key factor in climate change, and in this context, increasing emphasis is being placed on the development of clean energy sources. The novel contribution of the article lies in identifying the energy potential of surface waters within energy systems transitioning away from fossil fuels. In the case of Poland, whose energy system has been based on coal for many decades, there are still many opportunities to expand energy production from renewable sources. One such source is the heat contained in surface waters. The research presented in this article focuses on the thermal structure of nine stratified lakes in Poland, examining changes over time and across different spatial profiles. Considering all temperature profiles, values ranged from 8.3 °C in May to 10.1 °C in September. In general, water warming occurs from May to the July–August transition, reaching a maximum of over 6 °C, while cooling takes place in the later phase of the analyzed season at a lower level, not exceeding 6 °C. It was found that the most thermally stable part of the water body was the layer between 15 m in depth and the bottom of the lakes, for which the heat resources were calculated. Using the basic physical properties of water, the amount of heat for this layer was determined. Assuming that technological processes do not reduce the water temperature below 4 °C (maximum water density), the hypothetical amount of available energy ranges from 630 to 101,000 MWh. The results indicate the high energy potential of lakes, which could be utilized in the future, provided further legal and economic analyses are conducted for specific cases. The study highlights the need to expand the long-term thermal monitoring of lakes, covering their entire vertical structure. Priority for such measurements should be given to lakes located near human settlements, as these have the highest potential for practical use. Full article

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30 pages, 14066 KB

Open AccessArticle

Agricultural Expansion and Forest Transition in Mozambique: Evidence of Premature Decoupling (2001–2024)

by Sebastião De Hermínia Lucas Vilanculos, Sosdito Estevão Mananze and Mário Campos Cunha

Resources 2026, 15(2), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources15020026 - 3 Feb 2026

Viewed by 2683

Abstract

This study analyzes forest cover change patterns, agricultural expansion, and economic growth in Mozambique from 2001 to 2024, using remote sensing data from Global Forest Watch and socioeconomic indicators from the World Bank and FAO. Mozambique lost approximately 4.6 million hectares of forest [...] Read more.

This study analyzes forest cover change patterns, agricultural expansion, and economic growth in Mozambique from 2001 to 2024, using remote sensing data from Global Forest Watch and socioeconomic indicators from the World Bank and FAO. Mozambique lost approximately 4.6 million hectares of forest during the analyzed period, with agriculture accounting for 97.4% of total deforestation. GDP per capita increased by 90.5%, while cultivated area expanded by 116.4%. However, agricultural productivity declined by 25.3%, revealing a paradox: production growth relied on extensive land expansion rather than intensification. Statistical analysis of three 8-year sub-periods identified significant differences in GDP per capita, agricultural GDP per capita, population, and agricultural employment (p < 0.001), but agricultural deforestation remained statistically stable (p = 0.065). This pattern suggests premature decoupling between economic growth and deforestation at income levels (USD 604) substantially below historical Environmental Kuznets Curve thresholds (USD 8000–10,000). However, this decoupling is fragile, driven by capital-intensive extractive sectors that generate GDP growth without absorbing rural populations. The persistence of extensive agricultural expansion, combined with weak governance, demographic pressures, and climate variability, indicates that observed stabilization represents an initial, vulnerable phase requiring structural transformation through agricultural intensification, inclusive industrialization, land tenure reform, and climate resilience building. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainability in Agri-Food and Forestry Ecosystems—2nd Edition)

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23 pages, 3112 KB

Open AccessArticle

Achieving Sustainable Development Goals Through Hybrid Energy Supply Systems in Mining: The Case of the Varvarinskoye Copper–Gold Deposit

by Gennady Stroykov, Andrey Lebedev, Aida Belous and Ekaterina Kolganova

Resources 2026, 15(2), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources15020025 - 3 Feb 2026

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1440

Abstract

Many companies in the mining industry include decarbonization of production among their key strategic goals as part of their internal sustainability strategy. This need is driven by a number of factors: stricter regulation in the area of carbon footprint (introduction of carbon taxes, [...] Read more.

Many companies in the mining industry include decarbonization of production among their key strategic goals as part of their internal sustainability strategy. This need is driven by a number of factors: stricter regulation in the area of carbon footprint (introduction of carbon taxes, emissions quotas, reporting requirements); sustained growth in demand for electricity and rising market prices; economic feasibility—the need to optimize operating costs and improve energy efficiency. This study provides a comprehensive technical and economic justification for implementing a hybrid power supply system—combining a solar power plant (SPP) and a gas engine power plant (GPP)—at Solidcore Resources’ Varvarinsky hub in Kazakhstan. The methodology includes modeling the energy balance of the real asset (156.9 GWh of annual energy consumption), calculating the output of a 22.6 MW SPP based on local GHI/PR/η parameters, forming and determining the adaptability coefficient Kₐ (proportion of PV in total monthly electricity generation), conducting an economic assessment (NPV, payback period, sensitivity), and inventorying CO₂ emissions under Scope 1–2. The SPP provides approximately 41.3 GWh of electricity generation per year, with an average annual K_a = 0.263; the 40 MW installed capacity of the gas piston power plant covers the residual demand, forming a stable daily and seasonal balance. The project demonstrates a positive NPV (After Tax) = USD 23.65 million with an estimated payback period of 10 years, while the cost of energy in extraction and processing is reduced by almost three times, and the total reduction in CO₂ emissions will be 51%. Thus, hybridization of energy supply systems is a practical compromise between reliability and decarbonization. Determining the adaptability coefficient K_a allows the flexibility of the system to be taken into account, shows how effectively the new energy system uses renewable energy sources, and can be used to optimize the operation of the energy system to achieve the company’s internal sustainable development goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Production Efficiency and Environmental Research for Responsible Mining)

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34 pages, 11339 KB

Open AccessArticle

Spatio-Temporal Dynamics of Land Use and Land Cover Change and Ecosystem Service Value Assessment in Citarum Watershed, Indonesia: A Multi-Scenario and Multi-Scale Approach

by Irmadi Nahib, Yudi Wahyudin, Widiatmaka Widiatmaka, Suria Darma Tarigan, Wiwin Ambarwulan, Fadhlullah Ramadhani, Bono Pranoto, Nunung Puji Nugroho, Turmudi Turmudi, Darmawan Listya Cahya, Mulyanto Darmawan, Suprajaka Suprajaka, Jaka Suryanta and Bambang Winarno

Resources 2026, 15(2), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources15020024 - 31 Jan 2026

Viewed by 1089

Abstract

Rapid land use and land cover (LULC) changes in densely populated watersheds pose serious challenges to the sustainability of ecosystem services (ES), yet their spatially explicit economic consequences remain insufficiently understood. This study analyzes the spatio-temporal dynamics of LULC and ecosystem service values [...] Read more.

Rapid land use and land cover (LULC) changes in densely populated watersheds pose serious challenges to the sustainability of ecosystem services (ES), yet their spatially explicit economic consequences remain insufficiently understood. This study analyzes the spatio-temporal dynamics of LULC and ecosystem service values (ESVs) in the Citarum Watershed, Indonesia, one of the country’s most critical and intensively transformed watersheds. Multi-temporal Landsat imagery from 2003, 2013, and 2023 was classified using a Random Forest algorithm, while future LULC conditions for 2043 were projected using a Multi-layer Perceptron–Markov Chain (MLP–MC) model under three scenarios: Business-as-Usual (BAU), Protecting Paddy Field (PPF), and Protecting Forest Area (PFA). ESVs were quantified at multiple spatial scales (county, 250 m grids, and 100 m grids) using both the Traditional Benefit Transfer (TBT) method and a Spatial Benefit Transfer (SBT) approach that integrates biophysical indicators with socio-economic variables. The contribution of LULC transitions to ESV dynamics was further assessed using the Ecosystem Service Change Intensity (ESCI) index. The results reveal substantial historical forest and shrubland losses, alongside rapid expansion of settlements and dryland agriculture, indicating intensifying anthropogenic pressure on watershed functions. Scenario analysis shows continued degradation under BAU, limited mitigation under PPF, and improved forest retention under PFA; although settlement expansion persists across all scenarios. Total ESV declined from USD 2641.33 million in 2003 to USD 1585.01 million in 2023, representing a cumulative loss of 46.13%. Projections indicate severe ESV losses under BAU and PPF by 2043, while PFA substantially reduces, but does not eliminate economic degradation. ESCI results identify forest and shrubland conversion to settlements and dryland agriculture as the dominant drivers of ESV decline. These findings demonstrate that integrating multi-scenario LULC modeling with spatially explicit ESV assessment provides a more robust basis for ecosystem-based spatial planning and supports sustainable watershed management under increasing development pressure. Full article

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28 pages, 1550 KB

Open AccessArticle

Operationalising the Water–Energy–Food–Ecosystem Nexus in Life Cycle Assessment Ecolabelling: Exploring Indicator Selection Through Delphi Engagement

by Edoardo Bigolin, Milena Rajić, Tamara Rađenović, Serena Caucci, Giannis Adamos and Marco Frey

Resources 2026, 15(2), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources15020023 - 30 Jan 2026

Viewed by 1434

Abstract

Ecolabelling has emerged as a key instrument to communicate environmental performance to consumers, particularly in the agri-food sector where resource use and ecological pressures are highly interlinked. Conventional Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)-based ecolabels often suffer from methodological discretion, lack of territorial specificity, and [...] Read more.

Ecolabelling has emerged as a key instrument to communicate environmental performance to consumers, particularly in the agri-food sector where resource use and ecological pressures are highly interlinked. Conventional Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)-based ecolabels often suffer from methodological discretion, lack of territorial specificity, and limited consumer trust. This study investigates how the Water–Energy–Food–Ecosystem (WEFE) Nexus could be integrated into LCA-based ecolabelling, with a specific focus on pasta production as a representative case in the food industry. Indicators were collected from recent literature on LCA and Nexus applications, selected for simplicity and clear attribution to one WEFE dimension, and then evaluated by experts from COST Action CA20138 (NexusNet) through a two round Delphi protocol. The process yielded 23 indicators distributed across the four dimensions, which were subsequently compared with six Environmental Product Declarations to assess data availability and compatibility. The results suggest that many indicators can be computed with standard LCA inventories, while the Nexus perspective adds value by capturing multidimensional impacts and regional resource pressures. Further refinement and empirical testing are expected to enhance the framework’s applicability, but the findings already indicate that incorporating WEFE-based indicators into pasta ecolabelling could represent a promising pathway to improve analytical depth and consumer relevance, aligning circular economy principles with corporate assessment practices. Full article

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21 pages, 2862 KB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization of Phosphorus Recovered from Sewage Sludge Ash: A Brazil Case Study

by João B. Garcia, Rafael S. Lima, Pedro R. Resende, André H. Rosa, Alexandre M. Afonso and Leandro C. Morais

Resources 2026, 15(2), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources15020022 - 30 Jan 2026

Viewed by 873

Abstract

The lack of interest in the reuse of phosphorus in agriculture is mainly due to the high abundance of pathogens, organic pollutants, microplastics, and possibly toxic metals. Therefore, different forms of treatment are necessary to take advantage of phosphorus recovery potential, one of [...] Read more.

The lack of interest in the reuse of phosphorus in agriculture is mainly due to the high abundance of pathogens, organic pollutants, microplastics, and possibly toxic metals. Therefore, different forms of treatment are necessary to take advantage of phosphorus recovery potential, one of which is the use of ash from incinerated/calcined biological sludge. A high rate of conversion of the non-apatite inorganic phosphorus fraction into apatite phosphorus was obtained in this study because of the use of commercially pure CaO additive in the dry sludge calcination tests, which is more bioavailable to plants. The obtained phosphorus pentoxide content ranged from 12 to 17%, surpassing several phosphorus-based raw materials and fertilizers. In addition, the ashes have been shown to contain toxic metals far below those recommended by Brazilian and international environmental legislation, so they can be applied directly to the soil for crop fertilization, or be used in P extraction and separation technologies for fertilizer production. Full article

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23 pages, 2504 KB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Flood Mitigation and Water Storage Through Ensemble-Based Inflow Prediction and Reservoir Optimization

by Kwan Tun Lee, Jen-Kuo Huang and Pin-Chun Huang

Resources 2026, 15(2), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources15020021 - 29 Jan 2026

Viewed by 747

Abstract

This study presents an integrated decision support system (DSS) designed to optimize real-time reservoir operation during typhoons by balancing flood control and water supply. The system combines ensemble quantitative precipitation forecasts (QPF) from WRF/MM5 models, a physically based rainfall–runoff model (KW-GIUH), and a [...] Read more.

This study presents an integrated decision support system (DSS) designed to optimize real-time reservoir operation during typhoons by balancing flood control and water supply. The system combines ensemble quantitative precipitation forecasts (QPF) from WRF/MM5 models, a physically based rainfall–runoff model (KW-GIUH), and a three-stage optimization algorithm for reservoir release decisions. Eighteen ensemble rainfall members are processed to generate 6 h inflow forecasts, which serve as inputs for determining adaptive outflow strategies that consider both storage requirements and downstream flood risks. The DSS was tested using historical typhoon events—Talim, Saola, Trami, and Kong-rey—at the Tseng-Wen Reservoir in Taiwan. Results show that the KW-GIUH model effectively reproduces hydrograph characteristics, with a coefficient of efficiency around 0.80, while the optimization algorithm successfully maintains reservoir levels near target storage, even under imperfect rainfall forecasts. The mean deviation of reservoir water levels from the recorded to the target values is less than 0.18 m. The system enhances operational flexibility by adjusting release rates according to the proposed outflow index and flood-stage classification. During major storms, the DSS effectively allocates storage space for incoming floods while maximizing water retention during recession periods. Overall, the integrated framework demonstrates strong potential to support real-time reservoir management during extreme weather conditions, thereby improving both flood mitigation and water-supply reliability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Approaches in Sustainable Water Resources Cycle Management)

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18 pages, 2043 KB

Open AccessArticle

Microbial Biostimulants Improve Early Seedling Resilience to Water Stress

by Juliana Melo, Teresa Dias, Ana M. Santos, Sanaa Kamah, Silvia Castillo, Khalid Akdi and Cristina Cruz

Resources 2026, 15(2), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources15020020 - 28 Jan 2026

Viewed by 909

Abstract

Drought poses a major challenge for global agriculture, demanding strategies that improve crop resilience while safeguarding water and nutrient resources. Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR)-based biostimulants offer a sustainable approach to enhance resource-use efficiency under water-limited conditions. This study evaluated two commercial PGPR biostimulants [...] Read more.

Drought poses a major challenge for global agriculture, demanding strategies that improve crop resilience while safeguarding water and nutrient resources. Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR)-based biostimulants offer a sustainable approach to enhance resource-use efficiency under water-limited conditions. This study evaluated two commercial PGPR biostimulants applied to maize (Zea mays L.) and tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) seedlings grown under well-watered (80% field capacity) and water-stressed (40% field capacity) conditions. Both products improved plant growth and physiological performance, although responses were crop-specific. Inoculated tomato seedlings accumulated up to 35% more shoot biomass under optimal watering (1.6 g in non-inoculated seedlings compared with 2.5 g in inoculated seedlings), whereas maize maintained biomass production under drought, consistent with its higher intrinsic water-use efficiency, showing increases of approximately 50% (well-watered: 0.5 g versus 0.8 g; water-stressed: 0.3 g versus 0.7 g in non-inoculated and inoculated seedlings, respectively). Biostimulant application enhanced the acquisition and internal utilization of essential mineral resources, increasing leaf concentrations of (i) the macronutrients P (up to 300%), K (up to 70%), Mg (up to 220%), and Ca (up to 85%), and (ii) the micronutrients B (up to 400%), Fe (up to 260%), Mn (up to 240%), and Zn (up to 180%). Maximum nutrient increases were consistently observed in water-stressed maize seedlings inoculated with biostimulant 2. Antioxidant activities, particularly ascorbate peroxidase and catalase, increased by 20–40%, indicating more effective mitigation of oxidative stress. Principal component analysis revealed coordinated adjustments among growth, nutrient-use efficiency, and physiological traits in inoculated plants. Overall, PGPR-based biostimulants improved early drought tolerance and resource-use efficiency, supporting their potential as sustainable tools for climate-resilient agriculture. Field-scale studies remain necessary to confirm long-term agronomic benefits. Full article

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