Use Of Natural Resources Research Articles

Development of Circular Economy in Agriculture in Hanoi, Vietnam

The introduction of circular economy principles into closed production systems is essential to address current socio-economic and ecological challenges efficiently. This approach not only saves costs, creates job opportunities, and fosters economic growth but also promotes the sustainable use of natural resources in agriculture. Transitioning to a circular economy model in agriculture contributes to achieving sustainable development goals. In Hanoi, Vietnam, sustainable agriculture development focuses on integrating natural processes and biological resources to enhance productivity while preserving the environment. Challenges persist in shifting from conventional to organic farming methods due to certification complexities and infrastructure limitations. Despite these hurdles, organic farming adoption is increasing, positively impacting agricultural productivity and biodiversity. The gradual expansion of certified organic agriculture in Hanoi indicates promising strides toward environmental conservation and economic development through a closed-loop agricultural system.

Synergistic effects of GGBFS and EAFS on rheology, mechanical properties, and durability of self-compacting concrete: Experiments, predictions, and life cycle assessment

With the aim of reducing the use of natural resources, this research evaluated the behavior of self-compacting concrete (SCC) containing granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) powder instead of limestone powder, GGBFS fine aggregate instead of natural fine aggregate, and electric arc furnace slag coarse aggregate (EAFS) instead of natural coarse aggregate. The evaluation included a comprehensive assessment of fresh concrete properties, compressive strength, flexural strength, ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV), water absorption, and capillary water absorption. In addition, equations were proposed to predict the compressive strength of concrete in terms of the type and percentage of material replacement and curing time. Finally, the environmental effects of the concrete mixtures were studied, which fills a significant research gap. The results showed that with the optimal use of the mentioned substitute materials in concrete, the properties of fresh concrete, hardened concrete, and durability are improved. Using 45% GGBFS powder, 30% GGBFS fine aggregate, and 45% EAFS coarse aggregate, the concrete properties improved in comparison to the reference concrete. However, the results of the life cycle assessment showed that this mix design has more harmful effects on the environment than other designs of the present research. It should be noted that if these materials were not used in concrete, the same amount of damage would have been occurred due to their disposal.

Environmental Stressors of Mozambique Soil Quality

Mozambique is one of the poorest countries in the world. However, it has natural resources, and if they are managed under sustainable development principles, it can overcome its current problems. In the present socio-economic status, soil is one of its most important resources and must be protected from pollution and degradation. This review identifies and discusses the main soil quality stressors, namely soil fertility; deforestation and its sources: agriculture, timber harvesting, charcoal production, and uncontrolled fires; mining activities, manly gold artisanal explorations, and industrial open-pit coal mining; and solid wastes management. The sustainable use of natural resources is mandatory for future generations to continue to profit from this nature-based wealth.

Towards achieving status of green economy in OECD countries: Articulating the role of nuclear energy, greenfield investment and environmental taxation

In today's era, the green economy has become the central focus worldwide, along with the clean energy transition. Unfortunately, the current economic development model flourishes at the expense of the natural environment and ecosystems. Thereby, the concept of green economy gets immense attention among scholars and policy analyst. Most countries are dependent on energy import due to limited and unsustainable natural resource use. In this context, environmental taxation can play a key role in restricting the unsustainable use of natural resources, and nuclear energy can reduce energy import dependency, helping to shift from conventional growth to green economic growth. In this context, this study is an attempt to explore the relationship between nuclear energy, environmental taxation, greenfield investment, and the green economy in a panel of 16 Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) economies from 2000 to 2019. To get empirical estimate the study relies on Method of Moment Quantile Regression (MM-QR) approach. Interestingly, this study found that nuclear energy development discourages green economic growth across all quantiles in OECD countries. Furthermore, the study found that environmental taxation helps OECD countries achieve green economy status. Greenfield investments are another factor promotes the green economy. Climate policy measures are suggested in line with increasing share of nuclear energy in energy mix through greenfield investment in energy sector.

The Future of Innovative Agriculture: Bioeconomy and Sustainable Agriculture

Innovative farming techniques are essential for food security and sustainable farming practices. Innovative agricultural approaches utilize modern technologies and the latest inventions, as well as traditional agricultural practices. The main purpose of this study is to address the relationship between sustainable agriculture and bioeconomy and to examine innovative approaches that are expected to have a significant impact on the agricultural sector in the near future. The study was carried out in compilation format. Bioeconomy is an economic model or methodology based on the economic evaluation of biological resources and processes. Abiotic resources such as microbes, vegetation, animals, and biodiversity are all included in this strategy. On the other hand, sustainable agriculture, which aims to protect natural resources and take into account ecosystem benefits while maintaining food production, is an agricultural paradigm. The primary goals of bioeconomy and sustainable agriculture are economic evaluation, efficient use of natural resources and reduction of environmental impacts. Considered from these perspectives, it can be said that both concepts have common purposes and are closely related. It is possible to say that with the increasing use of sustainable agricultural methods and bioeconomy, the agricultural sector can move towards a more environmentally friendly, efficiently managed and sustainable structure in the future.

საავტომობილო გზის მიწის ვაკისისა და საფუძვლის გაძლიერება დოროსოლისა და დოროპორტის გამოყენებით

Road construction is the main determining part of the transport and operational condition of highways. The improvement of the road surface with the use of hydraulic binders under the conditions of minimum costs is discussed. The physical-mechanical parameters of soils are examined, as well as the issues of deformation of layers and a higher modulus of elasticity, which all contribute to enhancing the quality and durability of road construction. Details on the advantages of using hydraulic road binders, Dorosol and Doroport in the soil strengthening process are provided. Financial costs and terms for road construction are compared and calculated, and the differences between soil consolidation using new hydraulic road binders and Portland cement are evaluated. In addition, the article concentrates on the challenges of reducing the following negative impact on the ecology and the environment by strengthening soils with hydraulic road binders, with economical use of water and natural resources.

Off-farm work, adoption of resource-conservation technology, and farm performance: evidence from banana farmers in China

ABSTRACT Resource-conservation technology (RCT) can optimize the use of natural resources, reduce waste, and promote sustainability in agricultural development. However, the dissemination of RCT among small-scale farmers still remains at a low level in developing countries. This paper examines the impact of off-farm work on farmers’ adoption of RCT using the endogenous switching probit (ESP) model, detects mediating factors between them, and further explores the farm performance of RCT using the endogenous switching regression model (ESR) based on the primary data of 524 banana farmers in rural China. The results show that off-farm work has a positive impact on farmers’ adoption of RCT. Farmers with off-farm work are more likely to adopt RCT compared with those without off-farm work due to off-farm work could increase farmers’ positive cognition on the new agriculture technology. Specifically, off-farm work expands farmers’ information acquisition channels and improves farmers’ agriculture technology acknowledge and thereby promote farmers’ adoption of RCT. Moreover, the adopters of RCT have a higher agricultural yield than the non-adopters. Our findings emphasize a positive farm performance of RCT in small-scale farms in developing regions.

Highlighting the importance of biodiversity conservation through the Holy Qur'an.

Religious environmentalism relies upon religious texts and leadership to promote effective and long-lasting change for environmental problems, such as responsible use and conservation of natural resources and biodiversity. World religions note the importance of biodiversity and humanity's responsibility in stewarding biodiversity as a member of ecological communities. We reviewed Quranic verses that relate to biodiversity and align with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Holy Quran was reviewed in electronic and hard copy formats, and verses related to biodiversity were translated to English and tabulated by Qur'anic chapter, verse, and narrative citation. Twenty-one Qur'anic verses were identified that addressed biodiversity. Scriptures were divided into 5 groups that addressed provision of resources, governance or stewardship of resources, nature as a teacher, and human life in nature's communities or described creation of biodiversity. Qur'anic verses were aligned with 4 SDGs (goals 12-15), which address sustainable consumption of natural resources, global climate change, life in marine environments, and life in terrestrial environments, including freshwater ecosystems. This alignment demonstrates the interconnectedness of life, that conservation of biodiversity is referenced in the Quran, and how positive management of natural recourses can be beneficial to Muslim communities on local, national, and global scales. Positive movement toward ecofriendly practices, sound environmental resource use and management, biodiversity conservation, and governmental policies on conservation can be promoted through scriptures from the Holy Qur'an.

The Role of Local Knowledge in Natural Resources Conservation: An Environmental Anthropological Perspective in Traditional Agriculture

This article explores the pivotal role of local knowledge in the conservation of natural resources from the unique perspective of environmental anthropology within the context of traditional agriculture. Traditional agricultural practices have historically relied on indigenous knowledge systems, passed down through generations, to maintain a delicate balance between human livelihoods and the environment. This research endeavors to shed light on the invaluable insights offered by local communities and their practices in preserving ecological harmony. Through an interdisciplinary approach, combining anthropological fieldwork and environmental studies, we examine how local knowledge systems influence the sustainable use of natural resources, focusing on agricultural practices and their impact on ecosystems. We also analyze the transmission of this knowledge within communities and the adaptations made over time in response to changing environmental conditions. The findings of this study underscore the significance of local knowledge as a source of practical wisdom in addressing contemporary environmental challenges. Indigenous practices, such as agroforestry, crop rotation, and seed saving, have often proven to be more sustainable and resilient than modern agricultural methods. Moreover, these traditional practices reflect a deep understanding of the local environment and its ecological interdependencies. By understanding and respecting the indigenous knowledge held by traditional agricultural communities, policymakers, conservationists, and researchers can collaborate with local stakeholders to develop holistic and effective strategies for the conservation of natural resources. This research emphasizes the need for fostering partnerships that integrate scientific knowledge and local wisdom in order to achieve long-term sustainability and resilience in agriculture and environmental management. Ultimately, this article contributes to the growing body of literature highlighting the importance of acknowledging and incorporating local knowledge in efforts to address environmental issues and underscores the role of environmental anthropology as a bridge between traditional wisdom and contemporary conservation practices.

GDI (IoT-Based Gas Detector) As an Appropriate Technology for Gas Leak Detection in Tarakan City, North Kalimantan

Tarakan City, as the center of oil and gas resource exploitation in North Kalimantan Province, faces significant challenges related to safety and security concerning potential natural gas leaks. With its large population and the presence of 1,400 oil and gas wells, as well as being the largest consumer of natural gas networks in Indonesia with 32,000 consumers, the risk of gas leaks is a major concern. Previous gas leak incidents have demonstrated serious impacts, including fires and explosions resulting in significant losses for the community and the environment. To address these challenges, the 5.0 technology offers a potential solution, particularly implementing the Internet of Things (IoT). Based on this technology, developing an IoT-Based Gas Detector involves surveying potential tools, analyzing economic, social, and environmental factors, assembling the tools, and applying the product. IoT Gas Detectors have an advantage by utilizing connected sensor technology. The IoT-Based Gas Detector can be utilized to detect gas leaks in real-time, providing swift responses and reducing the potential impacts of gas leaks. Consequently, it can increase safety, security, and the efficient use of natural resources. The IoT-based Gas Detector (GDI) program supports several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including: [1] No Poverty, [3] Good Health and Well-being, [7] Affordable and Clean Energy, [9] Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, [11] Sustainable Cities and Communities, [17] Partnerships for the Goals.

A Systematic Review and Conceptual Framework for Natural Resource Performance Management

The topic of "Performance management of natural resources" has drawn more attention in the last few decades. Investigating how to manage natural resource performance more optimally is crucial for the long-term social and economic advancement of a nation. This study reviews the research progress of performance management of natural resources (including water resources) based on the pertinent literature of "Performance management of natural resources" and "performance management and evaluation of nature resources" in Web of Science. Through a review of the literature and inductive analysis, the authors found that the pursuit of sustainable resource consumption and management has emerged as the frontier direction of study. However, there is still room for development in the natural resource performance management evaluation system and methods, as well as the requirement for a comprehensive conceptual interpretation and analytical framework. As the literature on the factors impacting the success of natural resource management is currently lacking in depth, future research should concentrate on bolstering the usage of quantitative models. Enhancing the combination of research and quantitative models is also essential. This study builds research framework for natural resource performance management based on the body of current literature and the real-world experience of nations worldwide. In order to support decision-making for the sustainable use of natural resources, the authors describe the process and mechanism of performance management of natural resources and provide some workable evaluation methods based on a variety of evaluation objectives, subjects, and means.

Sustainability Evaluation of a Paper and Pulp Industrial Waste Incorporation in Bituminous Pavements

The valorization of wastes as an alternative or secondary raw material in various products and processes has been a solution for the implementation of sustainability, a safer environment, and the concept of circular economy in the efficient use and management of natural resources. To promote sustainability through a circular economy approach, this work tries to demonstrate the environmental gains that are obtained by bringing together, in an industrial symbiosis action, two large industrial sectors (the pulp and paper and the road pavement sectors) responsible for generating large amounts of wastes. A sustainability assessment, based on a life cycle and circular economy approach, is presented here, and discussed using a simple case study carried out on a real scale. Two wastes (dregs and grits) from the pulp and paper industry (PPI) were used to partially replace natural fine aggregates in the production of bituminous mixtures used on the top surface of road pavements. The impacts at a technical, environmental, economic, and social level were assessed and it was shown that this simple waste valorization action is not only positive for the final product from a technical point of view, but also for the environment, causing positive impacts on the different sustainability dimensions that were evaluated.

Exploring the role of Fintech, Green Finance and Natural Resources towards Environmental Sustainability: A study on ASEAN economies

ASEAN economies have seen a staggering rise in natural calamities in recent years. Hence, there is an urgent need for the ASEAN economies to develop meaningful strategies to address climate change and create sustainable development opportunities for future generations. The use of Natural Resources (NTR) for such development results in the emission of carbon dioxide (CO2), which harms Environmental Sustainability (ENS). On the other hand, the use of Fintech (FNT) can be a game-changer that would help to maintain high levels of economic growth and eradicate the issues related to the environment. Additionally, the use of Green Finance (GFIN) can also play a starring role in ENS by diverting funds for green growth in an economy. Therefore, the present study explores the role of Fintech, Green Finance and Natural Resources towards Environmental Sustainability. Such a role was explored through a recent and unique statistical technique named the “Cross-section augmented autoregressive distributed lags test” (CS-ARDL). Results of the study show that Fintech can be a gateway for providing the funding needed for green growth, while similarly, Green Finance can also be used to promote green investment and develop green and sustainable projects. The continued use and extraction of Natural Resources, however, can have a detrimental impact on the environment of the ASEAN countries. ASEAN countries are recommended to introduce a carbon tax to ensure that the firms are forced to reduce their CO2 emissions. This taxation should be followed by incentives for the use of renewable energy through the provision of Green Finance. Green bonds can be an ideal finance mechanism to boost Environmental Sustainability in the region.

The increasing energy intensity of drinking water supply

Supplying water to cities is an energy-intensive activity, but few longitudinal studies exist of water utilities’ energy intensity (energy use per unit water volume). Using t-tests and regression on public records from the state of Wisconsin, USA, we analyze over 500 drinking water utilities’ performance from 2001 to 2020. This is the first long-term panel analysis of its kind. The annual data show energy intensity has increased by 12 % in large, 8 % in medium, and 28 % in small water utilities. The large utilities remain the least energy intensive (0.49 kWh/m³ as of 2020, compared to 0.53 kWh/m³ and 0.67 kWh/m³ for medium and small utilities), and the small ones have diverged the most from the other two. At the same trajectory, energy intensity will increase by another 27 % for small water systems by 2040. Our analysis demonstrates economies of scale, highlights disadvantages of small utilities, and confirms predictions that water services would become more energy intensive. It motivates sustainability of coupled energy and water infrastructure and emphasizes responsible use of natural resources.

Green Energy Strategies and Their Effect on Natural Resource Sustainability in Pakistan

This study explores the impact of green energy strategies on natural resource sustainability in Pakistan, utilizing data from 1999 to 2022 and applying the ARDL estimation technique. The primary focus is on understanding how renewable energy consumption and production influence natural resource rents. Empirical results indicate a complex relationship: renewable energy consumption is negatively correlated with natural resource rents, suggesting that increased consumption of renewable energy may reduce the exploitation of natural resources. Conversely, renewable energy production shows a positive correlation with natural resource rents, implying that boosting renewable energy production can enhance the value derived from natural resources. These findings underscore the dual role of renewable energy in promoting sustainability. On the consumption side, a shift towards renewables can alleviate pressure on natural resources, fostering long-term ecological balance. On the production side, investing in renewable energy infrastructure appears to complement the efficient use of natural resources, potentially increasing economic rents. Policymakers should encourage renewable energy consumption through incentives and subsidies, reducing dependence on non-renewable resources and mitigating environmental degradation.

Improving Tea Powder Production Productivity through the Implementation of Environmental Friendly Principles

Abstract The powdered tea production industry is a crucial sector within the global food and beverage industry. However, the rapid growth in consumer demand has given rise to significant environmental challenges, including deforestation, excessive use of natural resources, and hazardous waste. This research addresses how the application of environmentally friendly principles in the powdered tea production process can effectively enhance productivity while reducing negative environmental impacts. We explore sustainable technology strategies, waste management, and agricultural practices in the context of powdered tea production. The concise articulation of these research findings offers valuable insights for companies and producers seeking to embrace a more sustainable approach in powdered tea production.

Green Dialysis From the Indian Perspective: A Systematic Review.

Global warming and climate change represent the most significant threats to humanity in the 21st century, both of which are manmade catastrophes. Addressing climate change requires corrective action across all aspects of modern human life and work, including the medical field. Among healthcare sectors, dialysis units stand out as major contributors to plastic waste and excessive water consumption. It is imperative for hemodialysis units to lead by example in the judicious use of natural resources. This systemic review is aimed to establish a bare minimum of recommendations for environmental sustainability across Indian dialysis units, and to guide future initiatives to reduce the environmental impact of dialysis process. A literature search was conducted on PubMed, and Google to retrieve articles or studies related to green dialysis. The predefined keyword search yielded a total of 291 studies. A total of 54 studies and articles which were relevant to study question, and fulfilled inclusion criteria, were retrieved and analyzed to form opinions on the implementation of green dialysis initiatives from an Indian perspective. Green dialysis initiatives are much-needed reforms to be adopted by the Indian dialysis community. Through careful planning and minimal efforts, substantial amounts of water used in hemodialysis can be conserved and repurposed for other hospital activities. Similarly, the vast majority of discarded plastic waste can be recycled or reused. Despite controversy, reconsidering the risk-benefit aspects of dialyzer reuse is essential, particularly in the context of resource-limited developing nations like India.

Rural household livelihood strategy, household reliance on forest goods, and its effect on protected area: Evidence from communities living adjacent to Kafta-Sheraro national park, Tigray, northern Ethiopia

Issues concerning household livelihood strategies and households' reliance on forest goods around Ethiopia's protected areas have not been adequately addressed. Thus, the purpose of this study is to quantify and determine the influence of livelihood assets on the choice of livelihood strategy, as well as the contribution of forest goods to rural livelihood and its effect on park conservation. The data was collected in 2020 through a survey of 384 households. To discover livelihood strategies, cluster analysis was employed. According to the study's findings, the livelihood asset indicators that significantly affected the likelihood of the household being in one of the identified livelihood strategies were forest income, labor, education level, number of livestock in TLU, agricultural income, off-farm income, non-farm income, access to credit, membership in a cooperative, and ethnicity. The study also discovered that forest income accounted for 17 % of the total income of the sample households, which varies across livelihood strategies (10 %–24 %) and ethnic backgrounds (43 % for Kunama). Households in low-income livelihood strategies (small-business and mixed-activity operators) generate more total and relative forest income than households in high-income livelihood strategies (large-scale and small-scale). There was no safe livelihood strategy for conserving park resources, as households in the entire livelihood strategy were involved in unlawful exploitation of park resources, which resulted in the deterioration of the park's ecological resources over time. Policy on agricultural intensification and encouraging livelihood choices less dependent on natural resources through creating opportunities (credit access, skill and knowledge development, and technology) should be applied, and the use of natural resources should be regulated and evaluated regularly.

Urban Metabolism and Digital Twin Technologies for a Sustainable Built Environment: Towards a Framework for a Campus Application

Abstract With rapid urbanization necessitating innovative strategies for urban adaptation, combining technological advancements and holistic methodologies, this research explored the synergy between urban metabolism and digital twin technologies to foster sustainable urban development. A pilot model representing a university building, including the surrounding streetscape, was constructed using the Unreal Engine. By using available CAD design drawings and GIS technologies, the physical spaces were modelled. The physical and analytical environments were integrated into the digital twin; material flow analysis was also conducted. The developed framework aims to offer a detailed visualization of building behaviour, facilitating comparisons with urban metabolism analysis. This approach holds promise for sustainable urban design by integrating diverse data streams through digital twin technologies. The potential impact of this research extends to the tracking, mapping, and analysis of crucial resource flows, such as materials, water, energy, and waste, fostering circular economy strategies within the built environment. Understanding urban metabolism facilitates the identification of resource-efficient opportunities, promoting resource recovery and reuse to reduce the environmental impact of urban cores. Embracing digital twin technologies and urban metabolism analysis offers cities streamlined data collection processes, supporting standardization and sustainable urban practices. This study marks a critical step towards integrating diverse data streams into urban metabolism analysis, aligning with circularity objectives in the built environment. By adopting this framework, cities can better understand new production and consumption patterns that prioritize the responsible use of natural resources, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient future.

National wealth in the context of the transformation of the socio-economic system

The subject of the research is the functions of national wealth, considered in the context of the transformation of the socio-economic system. National wealth in the context of the transformation of the socio-economic system is one of the fundamental indicators that reflects the totality of tangible and intangible resources at the disposal of the nation. During the transformation of the socio-economic system, there is a redistribution of national wealth between sectors of the economy. Transformation requires reforming state institutions, legal systems and management structures - this can affect the efficiency of using national wealth, increasing or decreasing economic stability, national security and investment attractiveness of the country. In modern conditions, special attention is paid to sustainable development, which involves the rational use of natural resources and minimization of environmental risks. Transformation of the system aimed at sustainable development contributes to the preservation and increase of national wealth in the long term. The purpose of the work is to determine the content and structure of national wealth in the context of the transformation of the socio-economic system. The research methodology is based on the generalization of information from domestic and foreign sources, statistical data on the issues considered in the work. The scientific novelty of the study consists in identifying qualitative changes in the characteristics of national wealth in the modern conditions of transformation of the socio-economic system. The article highlights the following stages (phases) in the development of the socio-economic system: crisis phase (destabilization phase), phase of awareness of the need for change, reform base (transformation phase), phase of adaptation and stabilization, phase of growth and development, phase of consolidation and institutionalization. The results of the study can be considered as an increase in scientific knowledge in economic theory.