Natural Resources in Environmental Studies
Natural resources are materials and components provided by nature that are essential for the survival and development of living organisms, especially human beings. Natural resources are studied to understand their use, conservation and sustainable management.
Natural Resources are naturally occurring substances that humans use to meet their needs such as food, water, energy, shelter and raw materials.
Importance of Natural Resources
- To support life on earth
- For economic development
- For ecological balance
- To protect cultural and social values
Sustainable use of Natural Resources
Sustainable development means using resources without compromising the needs of future generations.
Principles: –
- Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
- Conservation and Protection
- Use of renewable resources
Classification of Natural Resources
- Based on Origin
- Biotic Resources – Derived from living organisms like Forests, wildlife, fisheries, crops, livestock.
- Abiotic Resources – Derived from non-living components like air, water, soil, sunlight, sunlight.
- Based on Renewability
- Renewable Resources – Resources that can be replenished naturally.
- Non-renewable Resources – Resources that take millions of years to form.
- Based on Distribution
- Ubiquitous Resources – Found everywhere like sun, air, sunlight, water etc.
- Localised Resources – Found in specific regions like coal, iron ore etc.
- Renewable and Non-Renewable Natural Resources
- Forest Resources
- Land Resources
- Water Resources
- Food Resources
- Mineral Resources
- Energy Resources