Resources

24 pages, 2039 KB

Open AccessArticle

by Nader Naifar

Resources 2026, 15(4), 59; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources15040059 - 21 Apr 2026

Viewed by 316

This paper investigates whether water-related climate stress predicts tail movements in food system assets and whether these spillovers vary across market regimes and investment horizons. Using daily data from January 2012 to January 2026, we examine the relationships among a water-risk proxy, agricultural [...] Read more.

This paper investigates whether water-related climate stress predicts tail movements in food system assets and whether these spillovers vary across market regimes and investment horizons. Using daily data from January 2012 to January 2026, we examine the relationships among a water-risk proxy, agricultural commodities, agribusiness, and food supply-chain equities, and a fertilizer-related proxy. The analysis combines the cross-quantilogram with quantile spillover analysis in the frequency domain, allowing us to capture directional dependence in the tails of the distribution and short- and long-run connectedness. To account for structural change, we employ data-driven break detection and identify three major regimes: a pre-disruption period, a COVID-related adjustment phase, and a broader food system stress regime from early 2022 onward. The findings indicate that water-related climate stress has its strongest predictive power in the tails, especially for agribusiness and fertilizer-related assets, while the broad agricultural commodity basket is comparatively less sensitive. Lower-tail dependence is predominantly negative and often significant, whereas upper-tail dependence is generally positive, indicating asymmetric transmission under extreme market conditions. The spillover results further show that connectedness in the water–food system is mainly short-run, with agribusiness and fertilizer channels acting as the primary conduits of transmission. From a practical perspective, these findings suggest that investors and risk managers can use water-related market signals as early warning indicators of stress in food system assets, while policymakers can strengthen food system resilience through integrated water management, input market monitoring, and supply chain adaptation measures. The findings suggest that water-related climate stress is not merely an environmental constraint but a systemic source of food system risk with implications for resilience, risk monitoring, and integrated water-agriculture governance. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

47 pages, 1761 KB

Open AccessArticle

Carbon Emissions Modeling of Coal and Natural Gas Use in Poland’s Net-Zero Energy Transition

by Bożena Gajdzik, Radosław Wolniak, Dominik Bałaga and Wiesław Grebski

Resources 2026, 15(4), 58; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources15040058 - 20 Apr 2026

Viewed by 427

Abstract

This study develops econometric models to examine greenhouse gas emissions associated with coal and natural gas consumption in Poland between 2015 and 2023. Poland has one of the most carbon-intensive energy systems in Europe. Three complementary log–log econometric models were estimated: a model [...] Read more.

This study develops econometric models to examine greenhouse gas emissions associated with coal and natural gas consumption in Poland between 2015 and 2023. Poland has one of the most carbon-intensive energy systems in Europe. Three complementary log–log econometric models were estimated: a model explaining total CO₂ emissions, a model assessing emission intensity (CO₂ per unit of GDP), and a model capturing short-term variations in emission intensity. The results demonstrate that coal consumption remains the dominant determinant of absolute emissions, whereas the expansion of renewable energy significantly contributes to lowering the carbon intensity of economic growth. However, short-term fluctuations in emission intensity are still largely influenced by changes in fossil fuel consumption patterns. The findings highlight the gradual and sequential character of Poland’s energy transition, where gains in environmental efficiency precede a consistent reduction in total emissions. The proposed modeling framework offers an empirical basis for evaluating the effectiveness of climate and energy policies and can support the formulation of decarbonization strategies in economies heavily reliant on fossil fuels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessment and Optimization of Energy Efficiency: 2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 594 KB

Open AccessArticle

Adaptive Decarbonization Model for Russian Non-Ferrous Metallurgy Enterprises

by Liudmila I. Boguslavskaya, Olga Batova, Elena Katysheva and Yulia Lyubek

Resources 2026, 15(4), 57; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources15040057 - 16 Apr 2026

Viewed by 253

Abstract

This paper proposes an adaptive decarbonization model for the Russian non-ferrous metallurgy sector. The model accounts for the specific structure of the national energy balance (with nuclear and hydropower accounting for up to 40%), existing technological constraints, and regulatory risks, including the EU [...] Read more.

This paper proposes an adaptive decarbonization model for the Russian non-ferrous metallurgy sector. The model accounts for the specific structure of the national energy balance (with nuclear and hydropower accounting for up to 40%), existing technological constraints, and regulatory risks, including the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). Based on a comparative analysis of key companies (RUSAL, Norilsk Nickel, and UMMC), an algorithm for the sequential assessment of decarbonization priorities is developed. Its core element is an integrated urgency indicator, which enables the ranking of enterprises according to their sensitivity to carbon-related restrictions. The model aims to minimize potential financial losses arising from external carbon taxation while leveraging the structural competitive advantages of the Russian energy system. The priority in decarbonization in Russia is determined not by the absolute level of technological development or the current carbon intensity of production, but by the degree of exposure to external regulatory and market risks combined with the ability to adapt. It is proven that in the current geopolitical and economic realities, the successful decarbonization of Russian non-ferrous metallurgy is impossible either as exclusively technological modernization or as a passive reaction to external regulatory pressure. The findings indicate that directly adopting international decarbonization strategies developed for the EU and North America (such as the EU Green Deal and CBAM) is ineffective due to fundamental differences in raw material bases, climatic conditions, and logistics. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 881 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Analysis of Crop Methods and Harvest Season on Agronomic Yield and Spear Quality of Asparagus in Thailand

by Ornprapa Thepsilvisut, Nuengruethai Srikan, Preuk Chutimanukul and Jutamas Romkaew

Resources 2026, 15(4), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources15040056 - 16 Apr 2026

Viewed by 481

Abstract

Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.) represents a high-value horticultural crop in Thailand with significant export potential; however, optimizing productivity in tropical environments requires a precise understanding of how cultivation practices and harvest seasons influence marketability. Here, a split-plot experiment arranged in a completely [...] Read more.

Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.) represents a high-value horticultural crop in Thailand with significant export potential; however, optimizing productivity in tropical environments requires a precise understanding of how cultivation practices and harvest seasons influence marketability. Here, a split-plot experiment arranged in a completely randomized design with three replications was conducted to examine how different crop methods and harvest seasons affect asparagus yield and quality in Lopburi Province, Thailand. The main plots were categorized by harvest season—summer, rainy, and winter—while the subplots included three crop methods: conventional, GAP, and organic. Summer produced the highest yield and asparagus with the greatest levels of total chlorophyll, phenolics, and DPPH radical scavenging activity compared to other seasons. Although the conventional methods yielded the most spears per plant, these spears contained higher levels of contaminants, including cadmium, lead, and nitrate. In contrast, spears from GAP and organic methods had higher phosphorus levels. However, no pesticide residues were found in any spear samples. Economically, the organic method had the shortest payback period, owing to lower production costs; despite a lower annual yield, stable market prices kept it profitable. In addition, organic soils had the highest levels of organic matter, nitrogen, and phosphorus. Overall, while conventional methods enhance the yield and certain qualities, organic farming, particularly when harvested in summer, yields the highest economic returns and the most sustainable system among those tested. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 2268 KB

Open AccessArticle

Development of Potential Resources from Mine Waters from Hard Coal Mining as an Environmental Challenge for Sustainable Development—A Case Study of Poland

by Andrzej Chmiela, Beata Barszczowska, Stefan Czerwiński, Olena Trokhymets, Małgorzata Magdziarczyk and Adam Smoliński

Resources 2026, 15(4), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources15040055 - 15 Apr 2026

Viewed by 441

Abstract

Reducing and managing emissions of mine waters and the minerals dissolved in them, and above all, using these wastes as resources, is an important element of sustainable development in regions undergoing a gradual phase-out of fossil fuel extraction. This article examines selected aspects [...] Read more.

Reducing and managing emissions of mine waters and the minerals dissolved in them, and above all, using these wastes as resources, is an important element of sustainable development in regions undergoing a gradual phase-out of fossil fuel extraction. This article examines selected aspects of mine water management and the mineral substances contained therein, using the Polish hard coal mining industry as a case study, providing valuable insights for both Poland and other mining regions reducing raw material extraction regarding the sustainability of social water demand, mining sector restructuring, and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In Poland, underground hard coal mining remains a significant source of mine water and mineral salt emissions. Mine waters, discharged into the catchments of major rivers (approximately 200 million m³ per year) along with their dissolved mineral compounds (approximately 1.5 million Mg per year), have repeatedly contributed to serious environmental disruptions, e.g., the phenomena of so-called “fish kill”. This study analyzes both the scale of emissions and the economic utilization of mineralized mine waters discharged to the surface by underground hard coal mining in Poland. Key processes and potential causes for the observed increase in environmental burdens are discussed. Furthermore, the paper presents a current statistical assessment of the trends and scale of emission changes, which can serve as a basis for environmental management decision-making amidst the decarbonization of the economy. Utilizing potential water resources and mineral compounds from mine waters for internal use or within circular economy applications can reduce environmental pressure, support compliance with sustainable development policies, and mitigate long-term impacts on post-mining regions. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 907 KB

Open AccessArticle

Carbon Footprint Assessment of Food Waste Disposal Methods in a Thai Hypermarket’s Fresh Food Department

by Thunyanat Hutangkoon, Chumpol Yuangyai, Tongchai Puttongsiri, Viachaslau Filimonau and Jarotwan Koiwanit

Resources 2026, 15(4), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources15040054 - 31 Mar 2026

Viewed by 993

Abstract

The global urgency to mitigate environmental degradation and promote sustainable resource use necessitates effective waste management strategies, particularly in the retail sector, which is a significant contributor to food waste. This study explores the carbon ramifications of food waste disposal methods within a [...] Read more.

The global urgency to mitigate environmental degradation and promote sustainable resource use necessitates effective waste management strategies, particularly in the retail sector, which is a significant contributor to food waste. This study explores the carbon ramifications of food waste disposal methods within a hypermarket’s fresh food department in Bangkok, Thailand. Using the method of life cycle assessment (LCA) under the CML2001 framework, this study evaluates three food waste management methods: anaerobic digestion (AD), sanitary landfill, and mechanical and biological waste treatment (MBT). The analysis is structured to quantify the carbon footprint associated with each waste management strategy, measured in kilograms (kg) of carbon dioxide (CO₂) equivalent (eq.) per kg of food waste. The estimated carbon footprint is 0.0066 kg CO₂ eq./kg of food waste for MBT, 0.1221 kg CO₂ eq./kg of food waste for AD, and 1.4667 kg CO₂ eq./kg of food waste for sanitary landfill. These values were derived from defined system boundaries, modeling assumptions, and available operational data used to construct the life cycle inventory (LCI). In addition, a formal sensitivity analysis was not conducted in this study. Therefore, the reported values should be interpreted within the context of the modeling assumptions and data sources applied. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Waste Management for Recycling and Environmental Protection)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

40 pages, 9809 KB

Open AccessArticle

Tail-Risk Spillovers in Strategic Commodity and Carbon Markets: Evidence for Natural Resource Risk Management

by Nader Naifar

Resources 2026, 15(4), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources15040053 - 30 Mar 2026

Viewed by 871

Abstract

Commodity and carbon markets are central to natural resource allocation, energy security, and the effectiveness of carbon-pricing policies, yet their risk linkages can intensify sharply during crises. This study examines nonlinear, tail-dependent volatility spillovers across strategically important resource markets using a Quantile-on-Quantile connectedness [...] Read more.

Commodity and carbon markets are central to natural resource allocation, energy security, and the effectiveness of carbon-pricing policies, yet their risk linkages can intensify sharply during crises. This study examines nonlinear, tail-dependent volatility spillovers across strategically important resource markets using a Quantile-on-Quantile connectedness framework. We employ weekly observed data from 3 January 2010 to 27 April 2025 for eleven futures markets spanning metals (copper, silver, gold), energy (WTI crude oil, heating oil, natural gas, gasoline), agricultural commodities (sugar, coffee, corn), and carbon emissions. Volatility is measured using GARCH-based estimates and embedded in quantile VAR dynamics to map state-contingent shock transmission across the distribution. The results indicate strong asymmetries: connectedness rises markedly in tail regimes and attains its highest levels during the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia–Ukraine war, relative to the 2015–2016 energy market adjustment. Heating oil, gold, and natural gas frequently act as key volatility transmitters, while the carbon market shifts from a peripheral receiver to a more integrated and sometimes systemic node within the broader commodity risk network. The findings indicate that carbon-price risk propagates through resource markets in a regime-dependent manner, with implications for stress testing, tail-sensitive hedging, and the coordination of resource and climate policy under turbulent market states. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

40 pages, 2163 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Plant Extracts as Antibacterial and Antifungal Agents in Medical Textiles: A Systematic Review of Key Components, Efficacy, and Application Techniques

by Praxedes Jeanpierre Merino-Ramirez and Rebeca Salvador-Reyes

Resources 2026, 15(4), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources15040052 - 30 Mar 2026

Viewed by 1146

Abstract

This systematic review examines the use of plant-derived extracts as antibacterial and antifungal agents in medical textiles, with an emphasis on active components, extraction techniques, biological efficacy, target microorganisms, and fabric application methods. This study is framed within the context of natural resource-based [...] Read more.

This systematic review examines the use of plant-derived extracts as antibacterial and antifungal agents in medical textiles, with an emphasis on active components, extraction techniques, biological efficacy, target microorganisms, and fabric application methods. This study is framed within the context of natural resource-based plant biomass and agro-industrial residues as a sustainable source of high-value functional compounds for resource valorization. Searches in Scopus and Web of Science followed the PIOC framework and PRISMA protocol. From an initial 389 records, 38 studies met the eligibility criteria. We identified a sustained growth in publications between 2020 and 2025, and six predominant thematic lines related to medical textiles, sustainability, antimicrobial assessment, structural characterization, natural dyeing optimization, and antioxidant functionalization. Among the most studied species, Aloe barbadensis and Salvia officinalis were prominent. Leaves were the most frequently used plant organ, highlighting their relevance as readily available renewable biomass resources. Maceration was the most common extraction method, although ultrasound-assisted extraction yielded a broader metabolite profile and better preserved thermolabile compounds, demonstrating the impact of biomass conversion techniques on resource efficiency and extract quality. Cotton 100% (plain weave) was the most widely used substrate, and the exhaustion method (immersion/exhaust dyeing) was the preferred application technique. Overall, plant extracts obtained through the sustainable management and valorization of plant resources achieved high inhibition against pathogenic bacteria, including resistant strains, and consistent antifungal activity, supporting their potential for developing functional and sustainable medical textiles. These findings align with the goals for responsible production and good health and well-being and reinforce the role of biomass-based resource systems within a circular bioeconomy, opening avenues to optimize formulations, standardize methodologies, and evaluate post-laundering performance and in vivo biocompatibility. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 7679 KB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Solar Thermal Resource Continuity in Mexican Climates Using PCM-Based Thermal Energy Storage: Transient Modeling and Performance Comparison

by Cintia Monreal Jiménez, Jonathan Rojas Ricca, Robert Jäckel, Joseph Adhemar Araoz Ramos, Guillermo Barrios, Alberto Ramos Blanco and Geydy Gutiérrez-Urueta

Resources 2026, 15(4), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources15040051 - 27 Mar 2026

Viewed by 644

Abstract

The variability of solar energy limits its reliability as a thermal resource, motivating the use of thermal energy storage (TES) to extend heat availability beyond periods of direct irradiance. This study numerically compares latent and sensible TES integrated into a solar dish system [...] Read more.

The variability of solar energy limits its reliability as a thermal resource, motivating the use of thermal energy storage (TES) to extend heat availability beyond periods of direct irradiance. This study numerically compares latent and sensible TES integrated into a solar dish system from a resource-oriented perspective across representative Mexican climates. Rather than focusing only on stored energy, the analysis evaluates how each storage strategy affects the temporal availability and post-irradiation persistence of usable thermal energy over 24 h charge–discharge cycles. A salt-based PCM (58.1LiNO₃–41.9KCl) was assessed against steel-based sensible storage under identical operating conditions. Under average-day forcing, the minimum PCM mass required to effectively utilize latent heat while sustaining a 320 W test load was found to be 13 kg. Under these conditions, the PCM case showed smoother thermal transients and longer post-irradiation energy availability, enabling nocturnal operation. In contrast, a mass-matched 13 kg steel store showed negligible post-irradiation availability, while a volume-matched 55 kg steel configuration achieved similar nocturnal operation only by substantially increasing mass, with limited improvement in accumulated energy. Hot-day forcing extended the operating window, whereas cold-day forcing yielded negligible charging so that operation could not be sustained within a single daily cycle. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 1802 KB

Open AccessArticle

Integrated Flash Vacuum-Expansion and Cryostructuring for Resource-Efficient Tamarillo Biomass Processing

by Ubaldo Richard Marin Castro, Marisol Castillo-Morales, Guadalupe Luna-Solano, Enrique Flores-Andrade, Marco Antonio Salgado-Cervantes, Manuel Vargas-Ortiz and Adrien Servent

Resources 2026, 15(4), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources15040050 - 26 Mar 2026

Viewed by 658

Abstract

Tamarillo (Solanum betaceum) processing is characterized by early biomass exclusion and thermal stabilization, which may limit in-process retention of phytochemicals. This study evaluated an integrated sequence combining Flash Vacuum Expansion (FVE) under different processing conditions with whey protein-based cryostructuring as a [...] Read more.

Tamarillo (Solanum betaceum) processing is characterized by early biomass exclusion and thermal stabilization, which may limit in-process retention of phytochemicals. This study evaluated an integrated sequence combining Flash Vacuum Expansion (FVE) under different processing conditions with whey protein-based cryostructuring as a strategy to enhance the redistribution and structural immobilization of tamarillo bioactives. FVE promoted migration of phenolics and pigments prior to mechanical fractionation. Selected FVE-treated puree was incorporated into a whey protein matrix and subjected to cryostructuring and freeze-drying to generate a porous stabilization scaffold. Structural characterization by scanning electron microscopy and gas adsorption confirmed the formation of an interconnected porous matrix. Cryostructuring reduced water activity to 0.17 ± 0.01 and produced high porosity (91.9%) with low bulk density (0.109 g·cm⁻³). Total phenolic retention exceeded 83%, while anthocyanins showed greater sensitivity (46% retention). No statistically significant additional losses of phenolics or antioxidant activity were observed during cryostructuring relative to gelation. The integrated approach illustrates a process-level stabilization pathway in which redistributed phytochemicals are physically confined within a porous scaffold, providing a structurally differentiated alternative to conventional drying for improved in-stream resource utilization. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 572 KB

Open AccessArticle

Used Cork Stoppers: A New Recycled Raw Material for the Growing Media Industry

by Daniela Freitas, Henrique Ribeiro, Miguel Cabral and Jorge Gominho

Resources 2026, 15(4), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/resources15040049 - 25 Mar 2026

Viewed by 1195

Abstract

A characterization study of two by-products from the cork stopper industry was conducted to assess their suitability as components of growing media (substrate). Granulate of natural cork stopper (GNCS) and granulate of technical cork stopper (GTCS) were studied, evaluating their chemical composition, fractionation, [...] Read more.

A characterization study of two by-products from the cork stopper industry was conducted to assess their suitability as components of growing media (substrate). Granulate of natural cork stopper (GNCS) and granulate of technical cork stopper (GTCS) were studied, evaluating their chemical composition, fractionation, effects on physical and chemical properties, mineral elements, and phytotoxicity. The two by-products were granulometrically classified into four categories: very fine fractions (≤1 mm), fine fractions (>1 and ≤2 mm), intermediate fractions (>2 and ≤5 mm), and coarse fractions (>5 and ≤10 mm). The highest proportion of granulates was observed within the intermediate fraction (>2 and ≤5 mm). GTCS presented significant limitations regarding the assessed properties, while the very fine fractions (≤1 mm) were the most attractive in both granulates. Therefore, selecting raw materials and their fractionation are vital for predicting the performance of growing media and establishing their suitability for promoting plant growth and productivity. Thus, these two by-products of the cork stopper industry have desirable characteristics as components of growing media. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Resources, Volume 15, Issue 4 (April 2026) – 11 articles

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI