Natural Resources

Natural resources

Inanimate resources such as oil, natural gas, water, minerals in the natural environment and living beings such as forests, wildlife, fish. Tourism potential based on climate and vegetation characteristics is also considered within natural resources. Natural resources are divided into two as renewable and non-renewable natural resources. Mines are non-renewable, while wood, wind, solar and water energy are among the renewable sources.   Harnessing renewable natural resources plays an important role in sustainable development.

Natural resources are materials or substances that occur naturally in the environment and can be used for economic, social, or environmental purposes. They form the foundation of human survival and economic activities, providing food, energy, and raw materials for industry and development.

Types of Natural Resources

1. Renewable Resources

• Resources that can naturally replenish over time or are inexhaustible under normal conditions.
• Examples:
  • Solar energy: Energy from the sun.
  • Wind energy: Energy harnessed from wind movement.
  • Water (Hydropower): Rivers, lakes, and rainfall, though availability can vary regionally.
  • Forests: Renewable when managed sustainably.
  • Wildlife and Fisheries: If harvested responsibly.

2. Non-Renewable Resources

• Resources that exist in finite amounts or take millions of years to form and cannot be replaced once depleted.
• Examples:
  • Fossil fuels: Coal, oil, and natural gas.
  • Minerals: Gold, silver, copper, and iron.
  • Metals: Aluminum, zinc, and nickel.

3. Biotic Resources

• Derived from living or organic materials.
• Examples:
  • Forests, plants, and animals.
  • Fossil fuels, as they are formed from the remains of ancient organic matter.

4. Abiotic Resources

• Derived from non-living materials.
• Examples:
  • Air, water, soil, and minerals.

Importance of Natural Resources

1. Economic Development: Resources like fossil fuels, minerals, and forests are vital for industries, energy production, and trade.
2. Human Survival: Water, air, and soil are essential for life and agriculture.
3. Energy Production: Non-renewable and renewable resources provide power for modern infrastructure and technology.
4. Ecosystem Services: Forests, wetlands, and oceans support biodiversity, regulate the climate, and purify air and water.

Threats to Natural Resources

1. Overexploitation: Excessive use of resources leads to depletion (e.g., overfishing or deforestation).
2. Pollution: Contamination of air, water, and soil harms ecosystems and reduces resource quality.
3. Climate Change: Altered temperatures and weather patterns affect the availability of water, forests, and arable land.
4. Habitat Destruction: Urbanization, mining, and agriculture reduce natural habitats and biodiversity.

Sustainable Use of Natural Resources

• Conservation: Protecting ecosystems and wildlife through parks, reserves, and laws.
• Sustainable Practices: Renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and responsible forestry.
• Recycling and Reuse: Reducing waste and the need for raw material extraction.
• Education and Awareness: Promoting responsible resource consumption.