The hottest Resource Management Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Business Topics

Top Links 654 Ukraine's trillions in critical minerals. The economics of crime. Chinese science at war.

Chartbook • 300 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Conflict Studies Resource Management Global Economics
  1. Ukraine has a lot of valuable minerals underground that could have big economic impacts.
  2. There are complex relationships between crime and economics that are worth exploring.
  3. China is currently facing challenges in its scientific community, impacting its global standing.

Counting Materials

The Honest Broker Newsletter • 814 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🔬 Science Environmental Science Resource Management Economic Policy
  1. The use of materials in the U.S. has evolved significantly since 1970, with some materials seeing reduced demand while the economy grows. This shows that it's possible to become more efficient in using resources.
  2. Many materials used today are sourced from other countries, meaning the U.S. is consuming but not producing everything. This raises questions about the sustainability of relying on foreign resources.
  3. As global living standards rise, the demand for materials will increase. It's important to manage these materials wisely to minimize environmental impact while still supporting industrial growth.

The Super Rich Know We're Doomed

OK Doomer • 253 implied HN points • 26 Feb 25
🌞 Climate & Environment Climate change Environmental Policy Sustainability Global Warming Resource Management
  1. The super rich seem to know there's no bright future ahead for humanity. They are enjoying their last years on Earth while ignoring promises of a sustainable future.
  2. Many wealthy individuals are preparing for disaster, like building doomsday bunkers, which shows they aren't worried about the same issues the public face.
  3. There's a sense that leaders and elites are acting without consequences, showing little regard for the impacts of climate change and environmental destruction.

Empty Chambers

Doomberg • 5101 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Military Affairs Economic Policy Resource Management
  1. Tajikistan's economy relies heavily on remittances from migrant workers in Russia, making the relationship between the two countries very important.
  2. China has invested a lot in Tajikistan and benefits from its natural resources, showing how connected these countries are through trade.
  3. Recent export restrictions by China on critical minerals like antimony can affect the US, especially in military and technology sectors, increasing concerns in the Pentagon.

The Second Miracle

Gordian Knot News • 212 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🔬 Science Nuclear Energy Environmental Impact Resource Management Technological Innovation
  1. Humanity has faced many challenges, but we've been lucky to discover amazing solutions like fossil fuels and nuclear energy that have helped us thrive. These discoveries have led to huge improvements in our quality of life.
  2. Nuclear energy is powerful and produces less pollution, but it comes with risks like radiation exposure. Thankfully, we also have a natural DNA repair system that helps protect us from some of this damage.
  3. As we move forward, it's important for us to embrace nuclear power responsibly while being aware of its challenges. If we hadn't recognized its potential, we could have faced serious problems in our civilization.
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The Battery Mineral Loop

Renewable Revolution • 439 implied HN points • 24 Jul 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Sustainability Energy Recycling Resource Management Innovation
  1. Battery minerals are becoming more efficient and less dependent on mining. Advances in recycling and chemistry can help meet demand without exhausting resources.
  2. In the coming decades, we might reach a point where we won't need to extract new battery minerals at all. We could rely on recycling old batteries instead.
  3. Countries have a big chance to shift from fossil fuel use to sustainable energy. This change can happen faster and cheaper than many think, especially if everyone works together.

Let's map every tree on the planet

Jeff Giesea • 259 implied HN points • 28 Aug 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Climate Policy Resource Management Geopolitics National Security
  1. The U.S. should create a new intelligence discipline called Climate & Natural Resources Intelligence (CNRINT) to better understand and manage the world's resources.
  2. Using advanced technology like drones and satellites, we can map and monitor natural resources globally, helping countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo protect their wealth from outside exploitation.
  3. There is an urgent need for the U.S. to lead in natural resources intelligence, ensuring that gathered data is used for good and benefits humanity for future generations.

Webinar on The Battery Mineral Loop

Renewable Revolution • 119 implied HN points • 19 Aug 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Sustainability Renewable Energy Resource Management Environmental Policy Webinars
  1. There will be a webinar discussing how to reduce the need for new mined battery minerals by 2050. It's a great opportunity to learn more about this important topic.
  2. The webinar is happening on August 22nd at 11:30 AM Eastern Time. Mark your calendar if you're interested in the future of battery minerals.
  3. You can read a detailed report called 'The Battery Mineral Loop' to get more insights before the webinar. It's a good way to prepare and understand the discussion better.

Jevons Paradox

davidj.substack • 35 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
💼 Business Economics Investment Technology Efficiency Resource Management
  1. Jevons Paradox shows that when something becomes cheaper to use, people tend to use more of it, which can actually lead to higher overall consumption. This means that efficiency gains may not reduce usage as expected.
  2. When teams save money through efficiency, they're likely to spend their budgets on new projects instead of cutting costs. They want to use their saved money to create more value.
  3. Using tools that are easier and more efficient can lead to discovering new ways to use them, increasing overall spending on those tools instead of cutting back. This often justifies bigger budgets for future projects.

Low-carbon tech needs much fewer materials than it used to; this matters for resource extraction in the future

Sustainability by numbers • 364 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Sustainability Resource Management Circular Economy Renewable Energy
  1. Low-carbon technology is using way fewer materials now than in the past. This means we can reduce the need for new resource extraction in the future.
  2. Many materials from old solar panels and batteries can be recycled more effectively, which could lead to a 'super-circular' economy. This is better than just making one new item from one old item.
  3. Improvements in material efficiency for solar panels and batteries mean that even if we don’t recycle everything perfectly, we can still have enough materials for more new products.

Proem to the Aenean Future

Contemplations on the Tree of Woe • 927 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Environmental Policy Resource Management Sustainability
  1. The future holds challenges around resource scarcity, but there's hope in human creativity and technology. People believe we can find solutions to navigate tough times ahead.
  2. Emphasizing the need for green energy and a sustainable way of life is crucial. Society must transition to alternative energy sources, like solar and hydrogen, while addressing environmental concerns.
  3. Space exploration could become practical and profitable. Investing in space tech might help solve Earth's resource problems and allow humanity to expand beyond our planet.

Top Links 541 US profits have a long way to fall. Africa's new gold rush. Laos' fx reserves running low & the crisis in the Sahel.

Chartbook • 343 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
💰 Finance Corporate Profits Economic Trends Global Markets Resource Management Financial Crises
  1. US corporate profits are expected to decline significantly in the future. This could impact the economy and stock markets.
  2. Africa is experiencing a new wave of interest in gold mining. This could bring economic growth to the region.
  3. Laos is facing a shortage of foreign exchange reserves, which may lead to a financial crisis. Additionally, the Sahel region is experiencing ongoing challenges and instability.

Let It Snow, Let It Go: The SnowVendor’s Dilemma

Gad’s Newsletter • 29 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
💼 Business Operations Economics Logistics Supply Chain Resource Management
  1. Cities need to balance snow removal resources to avoid wasting money during mild winters while being prepared for severe storms. Too many resources can cost a lot, while too few can lead to big problems.
  2. Using data to predict snowfall and plan ahead helps cities manage their snow removal strategies better. This includes estimating how many snowplows and how much salt they will need based on past snow events.
  3. Pooling snow removal resources among cities sounds good, but it can create logistical challenges. Sharing equipment and supply can be complicated during serious snow events when everyone needs help at the same time.

Managing the coming lithium boom (and bust) in select African states

An Africanist Perspective • 395 implied HN points • 08 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics Mining Wealth Distribution Global Affairs Green Energy Resource Management
  1. African lithium-rich countries should focus on localizing refining and ownership structures to eliminate informational gaps with multinational companies as demand for lithium rises.
  2. Countries managing natural resources can benefit from strategies like diversifying economies, producing inputs for the sector, and adding value before export.
  3. African countries facing the lithium boom need to carefully navigate ownership structures, maximize value addition locally, and manage geopolitical pressures to make the most of their green metal deposits.

The Moon exploration: the past and the future

Space Ambition • 1099 implied HN points • 16 Sep 22
🔬 Science Space Exploration Technology development Astrobiology Resource Management
  1. The Moon has many resources, like water ice and minerals, that could help support life and reduce our reliance on Earth. This could be a big deal for future space missions.
  2. There are lots of new companies working on lunar projects, like transportation and communication for a Moon base. A lot of exciting developments are happening in the lunar economy right now.
  3. Plans for Moon exploration are moving forward, with crewed missions set for 2024 and a permanent base by 2030. Many countries and companies are joining forces to make this a reality.

Fortress North America

Diane Francis • 679 implied HN points • 20 Oct 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Energy Policy Geopolitics Environmental Issues Resource Management Economic strategy
  1. Germany's move to stop using nuclear power made it depend on Russian energy, highlighting how important energy independence is for countries. Now, many are reconsidering their energy policies.
  2. North America could work better together to manage its energy resources and reduce reliance on OPEC countries. By teaming up, the U.S., Canada, and Mexico could supply energy to themselves and help allies like Europe.
  3. Fossil fuels will still be necessary for a long time, and using a mix of energy sources, including renewables and nuclear, is realistic. Proper planning can help reduce emissions while still meeting energy needs.

How to build the future in place

The Raven • 216 implied HN points • 14 Sep 23
🌞 Climate & Environment Community Initiatives Sustainable Practices Resource Management Renewable Energy
  1. The world is facing a crisis of climate and ecosystem breakdown due to human activities.
  2. Building the future at the local and regional levels through strong communities can help address global challenges.
  3. Focusing on community-based solutions like social housing, sustainable materials, and governance can create a more resilient and cooperative society.

The Arctic War

Diane Francis • 499 implied HN points • 18 Aug 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Military Strategy International relations Resource Management
  1. Russia is claiming control over the Arctic, leading to increased military activity in the region. This has raised concerns among other countries and prompted them to strengthen their defense strategies.
  2. The melting ice in the Arctic could open new shipping routes, but currently, Russia’s Northern Sea Route appears to be the most viable option. This could significantly change trade dynamics between Europe and Asia.
  3. The struggle for influence in the Arctic is not just about territory, but also about resources and trade. Other countries are wary of Russia's aggressive posturing and its impact on global power balances.

The New Gold Rush: Asteroid Mining

Space Ambition • 279 implied HN points • 16 Dec 22
🕹 Technology Space Exploration Resource Management Astrobiology Engineering Entrepreneurship
  1. Asteroid mining could help solve the problem of limited Earth resources. Some asteroids are worth tons of money and could provide materials crucial for technology.
  2. Mining in space isn't just about precious metals; water is a key resource that astronauts can use for drinking and rocket fuel. It also opens up possibilities for farming in space.
  3. There are many challenges to asteroid mining, like developing the right tools and overcoming technical issues. But with innovation, it could become a reality, and the first trillionaire might be a space miner.

Kazakhstan Captured?

Diane Francis • 459 implied HN points • 07 Jan 22
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Military Affairs Conflict Studies Resource Management
  1. Kazakhstan is a large country in Central Asia with rich natural resources. This makes it an important location for global politics.
  2. Recently, Russia sent troops to Kazakhstan, increasing tensions in the region. This move has raised concerns about Kazakhstan's independence.
  3. The situation in Kazakhstan could affect many other countries, as it's a key player in energy supplies and regional stability.

Running Dry

Climatescape Community Dispatch • 58 implied HN points • 12 Apr 23
🌞 Climate & Environment Water Crisis Resource Management Activism Indigenous rights
  1. Access to fresh water is decreasing due to climate change impacts like rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and extreme weather events, leading to a water crisis globally.
  2. The water crisis in the United States is varied, with regions like the western U.S. facing drought, competition over dwindling water resources, and disregard for Indigenous water rights.
  3. Copper mining, necessary for climate change solutions like electric vehicles, poses a significant threat to water resources due to its high water usage, emphasizing the importance of alternative solutions and prioritizing water reuse, recycling, and Indigenous community involvement.

The Geopolitics of the Arctic

The Climate Historian • 19 implied HN points • 26 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics International relations Environmental Policy Global Economy Resource Management
  1. The Arctic is becoming a very important area for countries around the world because of its natural resources and changes due to climate change. Many nations are paying more attention to it now.
  2. Climate change is rapidly warming the Arctic, which is causing ice to melt and opening new shipping routes. This affects not just local communities but also global weather patterns.
  3. As Asia's economy grows, countries like China are increasing their interest in the Arctic. This shift creates new possibilities and challenges for international cooperation in the region.

Adapting Land Value Taxation to Space

Splitting Infinity • 39 implied HN points • 17 Aug 23
🕹 Technology Taxation Natural resources Assessment Resource Management
  1. Taxation is essential for governance and must be adapted for effective government in space as the celestial realm sees more activities and developments.
  2. Principles of taxation like efficiency, sufficient revenue, practicality, tolerance, clarity, and locality should guide the design of tax systems in space to ensure fairness and viability.
  3. Georgism, with its focus on land value taxes, can offer a balanced solution for taxation in space by encouraging development while discouraging rent-seeking behaviors.

what might happen - one sequence

Douglass’s Newsletter • 19 implied HN points • 07 Feb 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Sustainability Urban planning Natural Disasters Resource Management Environmental Activism
  1. Very few are aware of major trends already happening on Earth, such as deforestation, floods, and food production decline
  2. A proposed sequence envisions a path from crisis to Gardenworld through stages like Lifeboats and Security
  3. The concept of Gardenworld offers a goal for continuous experimentation and improvement in education, medicine, and other areas

The rough edges of Terraform that I awkwardly stumble over

Basta’s Notes • 122 implied HN points • 07 Mar 23
🕹 Technology Infrastructure Automation Resource Management API Integration
  1. Terraform allows writing code to describe infrastructure in production, automating deployment and management across various cloud platforms.
  2. Securing secrets in Terraform state files can be a challenge, requiring manual handling to avoid storing sensitive data.
  3. Terraform's manual and serial nature requires human oversight for changes to avoid unintended consequences, making automation challenging.

Implementing scoped defer in C

Burning the Midnight Coffee • 10 HN points • 09 Mar 24
🕹 Technology Programming Resource Management
  1. Error handling and resource management in C can be challenging, leading to messy and error-prone code structures. Implementing a scoped defer mechanism simplifies resource management and reduces the need for manual cleanup in C programs.
  2. Different programming languages have various built-in mechanisms for resource management like scope-based resource management in C++ and Rust, special resource handling blocks in C#, Java, and Python, and the use of defer statements in languages like Go, Zig, Odin, and C3.
  3. Defer in C can be implemented using macro tricks to provide a simple and efficient scoped defer mechanism, similar to other languages. Nested scopes and proper resource cleanup can be achieved by creatively using macros and conditional jumps within C code.

Are more flexible resources always better? A case for rigid resource allocation.

Entraigues • 0 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
💼 Business Resource Management Operations Decision-making Economics Product Development
  1. Flexible resources can be used for many purposes, like money and skilled workers. Inflexible resources have limited uses, but they can sometimes be more helpful, depending on the situation.
  2. In some cases, like memberships or all-inclusive resorts, inflexible resources encourage people to use them more, even if it costs more upfront.
  3. Having specialized teams or resources in a workplace can be better for long-term goals, even if it seems less efficient in the short run. This can improve overall quality and satisfaction.

How to solve Engineering Manager Case Study Interview

Better Engineers • 0 implied HN points • 14 Jul 24
🚌 Education Career growth Interview Tips Critical Thinking Problem Solving Resource Management
  1. To tackle a case study in an engineering manager interview, first understand the problem clearly. Read the case multiple times to catch all the details.
  2. Break down the main problem into smaller parts so it's easier to manage. Think about the perspectives of different people involved to find the best solutions.
  3. After solving each smaller problem, combine all the solutions into one plan. Then, be ready to present your findings clearly using visuals to help explain your points.

Segregate resources and good hygiene between AWS accounts

Thoughts from the trenches in FAANG + Indie • 0 implied HN points • 06 Jun 23
🕹 Technology Cloud Computing Software Engineering Data security Project management Resource Management
  1. Using different AWS accounts for each project helps keep resources separate and makes billing easier. This way, it's simple to track costs for each project.
  2. Having separate accounts reduces confusion and complexity for engineers. It keeps projects organized, making it easier to find the resources they need and limits mistakes.
  3. Segregated accounts also improve security, as a problem in one account won't affect others. This protects against errors and minimizes potential damage from mismanaged access.

Crossing the Earth system boundaries

The Climate Historian • 0 implied HN points • 02 Jun 23
🌞 Climate & Environment Sustainability Environmental justice Resource Management
  1. Humans have crossed seven out of eight environmental safety boundaries, which means we are putting Earth's stability at risk. This includes issues like climate change and water contamination.
  2. Air pollution is the only boundary not yet crossed, but it's still a major concern. The findings show that we need to take serious action to protect our planet.
  3. There are two main ideas on how to address these problems: one is to create a more sustainable economy while still allowing for growth, and the other is to rethink our economy to focus less on constant growth and consumption.

The Arctic and its Resources

The Climate Historian • 0 implied HN points • 13 Mar 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Resource Management Sustainable Development Climate change Biodiversity Geopolitical Issues
  1. The Arctic is warming much faster than other parts of the world, leading to the loss of sea ice, which can cause more global warming and rising sea levels.
  2. Despite the Arctic being rich in resources like oil, gas, and minerals, the environmental risks from extracting these resources are significant, affecting both the ecosystem and local communities.
  3. As new shipping routes open up due to melting ice, there's potential for economic growth, but this must be balanced with the need to protect the fragile Arctic environment and support indigenous populations.