-
Research Article
The Cuban Nickel Industry Between Extractivism and Descarbonization: A Sector with Great Challenges
Eglis Martin Astorga*
,
Rafael Lodezma Tamayo Caballero
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 2, April 2025
Pages:
19-28
Received:
19 March 2025
Accepted:
10 April 2025
Published:
29 April 2025
Abstract: The exploitation of mineral resources occupies a significant role in the current debate on sustainable development for any country. In underdeveloped countries such as Cuba, the extraction and export of nickel is one of the activities that has played an important role in the national economy. Introduction: From 1990 onwards, this sector underwent a restructuring process that marked a starting point for its resizing. A joint venture was created with Sherritt International and one of the production plants was integrated into the global mining value chains. Nevertheless, an extractivist model persists in this activity, characterised by the export of primary products with low added value, high environmental impact at the territorial level and the prevalence of an enclave conception that limits the articulation and productive linkage with the national market. Objective: The aim of this article is to reflect on the transition of the Cuban nickel industry towards another development model that goes beyond extractivist practices. Methodology: From a critical perspective, it analyses the theoretical debate surrounding the sustainable development of mining and extractivism. Results: It is argued that policies to overcome extractivism should prioritise three directions: the promotion of strategies that encourage Foreign Direct Investment, the articulation of the territory to these strategies and the urgent generation of productive chains as the main concluding idea. Conclusion: Overcoming extractivism is assumed to be a sustainable development strategy that integrates several dimensions; it is considered a process deliberately conceived and managed by society to compensate for the damage caused to the environment. General study area: (Social Sciences). Specific study area: (Extractivism).
Abstract: The exploitation of mineral resources occupies a significant role in the current debate on sustainable development for any country. In underdeveloped countries such as Cuba, the extraction and export of nickel is one of the activities that has played an important role in the national economy. Introduction: From 1990 onwards, this sector underwent a...
Show More
-
Case Report
Artisanal Opal Mining in the Delanta Area of South Wollo, Northern Ethiopia
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 2, June 2025
Pages:
29-37
Received:
8 April 2025
Accepted:
23 April 2025
Published:
29 May 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.jenr.20251402.12
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: Ethiopia's opal mining and market sectors grapple with multifaceted challenges due to insufficient engagement from governmental and private entities. Key issues include the absence of comprehensive mining practices, limited promotional efforts, and the reliance on rudimentary techniques without proper machinery. Additionally, the market chain fails to adequately benefit local miners, exacerbated by fluctuating prices and the presence of illegal traders, unpredictability of the opal supply chain due to geological uncertainties. Environmental and social concerns loom large, worsened by the lack of impact assessments and miners' disregard for conservation efforts, posing risks to health, safety, and ecosystem stability. Demand for opals is shaped by a complex interplay of factors, including fashion trends, cultural inclinations, and economic conditions. Opal's historical appreciation for its fascinating play-of-color has cemented its status as a sought-after gemstone for jewelry and decorative purposes. Collaborative efforts are imperative to strengthen regulatory frameworks, improve promotional strategies, and foster sustainability in the sector. While mechanized mining offers efficiency gains, its implementation requires significant investment in equipment and infrastructure, primarily benefiting mining enterprises, establishing a centralized platform for grading opal at a designated location can streamline the process and foster a free-market system, attracting foreign investment and contributing to the country's economic development.
Abstract: Ethiopia's opal mining and market sectors grapple with multifaceted challenges due to insufficient engagement from governmental and private entities. Key issues include the absence of comprehensive mining practices, limited promotional efforts, and the reliance on rudimentary techniques without proper machinery. Additionally, the market chain fails...
Show More
-
Research Article
Household Livelihoods and Economic Activities in the Birbo Watershed, Central Ethiopia
Kalkidan Fikirie*,
Ayalnesh Melese,
Obsa Adugna
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 2, June 2025
Pages:
38-53
Received:
9 February 2025
Accepted:
18 April 2025
Published:
29 May 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.jenr.20251402.13
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: Baseline characterization is essential to measure project performance and impact evaluation before making many interventions to project processes. The main objective of the study was to investigate the socioeconomic characterization in the Birbo watershed. Both quantitative and qualitative data were used. Quantitative data were collected using a structured questionnaire with face-to-face interviews with households at the catchment site. One hundred twenty (120) households were selected randomly and interviewed. Major constraints and opportunities were identified by using key informant interviews and focus group discussions. The quantitative data analysis was carried out by using descriptive, inferential statistics and STATA software. Results of the study showed that the majority of the sample households (83%) were male-headed households. In the Birbo watershed mixed farming systems (crop and livestock raring) are the major (93%) occupation of the sampled households. According to the survey result, Wheat, Barley, Teff, Faba Bean, Field peas, and Potato are the major crops produced in the Birbo watershed, 91, 81, 83, 46, 30, and 19%, respectively. In terms of land degradation, the watershed is characterized by high land degradation caused by deforestation, overgrazing, continuous cultivation, and inappropriate cultivation. Low adoption of improved crops and livestock technologies is also the other problem identified in the watershed. Livestock feed shortage, no AI service, low adoption of improved forage, and low access to the cattle market were major problems in the watershed. Institution services such as training, extension advisory, field day, financial services (access to loans), and rural roads were other constraints in the watershed. Therefore, the study suggests that an integrated approach is more important and necessary for the sustainable use of watershed resources, and further development in all aspects of the watershed should be implemented. It is necessary to put appropriate rural land use policy by identifying proper land for specific purposes so that marginal and degraded lands are given urgent measures to recover and would not be put under cultivation. It is recommended to formulate strategies for sustainable management of the current study area and other areas with similar geographic settings.
Abstract: Baseline characterization is essential to measure project performance and impact evaluation before making many interventions to project processes. The main objective of the study was to investigate the socioeconomic characterization in the Birbo watershed. Both quantitative and qualitative data were used. Quantitative data were collected using a st...
Show More
-
Research Article
Evaluation and Modeling the Effect of Clay Soil Binding Ratio and Compaction Pressure Level on the Thermal Properties of Carbonized Rice Husk Briquetting Charcoal
Mersha Alebachew Fetene*,
Dessye Belay Tikuneh
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 2, June 2025
Pages:
54-68
Received:
11 April 2025
Accepted:
24 April 2025
Published:
29 May 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.jenr.20251402.14
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: In developing countries, the mismanagement of agricultural residues such as rice husks not only exacerbates environmental pollution but also poses serious health risks. As a byproduct of the rice milling process, rice husks are abundant and largely underutilized, presenting a significant opportunity for renewable energy generation. This study evaluates and models the thermal properties of carbonized rice husk charcoal briquettes by analyzing the effects of varying clay soil binder ratios at five levels (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%) and applied compaction pressures at three levels (6mm, 12mm, and 18mm) on burning temperature and duration. It involves a total of 15 treatments arranged using a 5×3 factorial experiment in a completely randomized design, with three replications for each treatment. The regression polynomial equation and modeling graph were developed to predict the outcomes of each treatment combination, enabling the identification of the optimal burning temperature and duration based on experimental findings and the modeling equation. The results showed that the treatment combination of 0% clay soil binder with a 6mm compaction pressure level resulted in a burning temperature below 110°C, with the low burning temperature lasting less than 5 minutes, the peak burning temperature of above 965°C was achieved with 12 mm compaction pressure and a 5% clay soil binder ratio, while the longest burning duration, exceeding two hours, occurred with 18 mm compaction pressure and a 20% clay soil binder ratio. In general a lower clay soil binder ratio reduces ash content, increasing burning temperature, while medium compaction pressure optimizes airflow for peak combustion. Future research could explore alternative binders, compaction pressures, agricultural residues, moisture levels, and particle sizes to enhance burning temperature and duration.
Abstract: In developing countries, the mismanagement of agricultural residues such as rice husks not only exacerbates environmental pollution but also poses serious health risks. As a byproduct of the rice milling process, rice husks are abundant and largely underutilized, presenting a significant opportunity for renewable energy generation. This study evalu...
Show More
