Renewable Resources

Renewable resources are those that can be replenished or regenerated at a rate equal to or faster than the rate at which they are consumed. These resources include:

Water: essential for drinking, agriculture, and industrial processes
Wind: used for generating wind energy
Solar energy: harnessed through solar panels for electricity
Forests: provide wood for construction and paper production
Fish and wildlife: used as a source of food and in some cases, for economic gain

Non-Renewable Resources

Non-renewable resources are finite and cannot be easily replenished. These resources include:

Fossil fuels: such as coal, oil, and natural gas, used for energy production
Minerals: including iron ore, copper, and gold, used in manufacturing and construction
Non-metallic minerals: like salt and gypsum, used in various industries
Fossil groundwater: water stored in underground aquifers, which is a finite resource

Study Guide

To study the topic of natural resources, consider the following key points:

Define natural resources and differentiate between renewable and non-renewable resources.
Discuss the importance of natural resources for human life and economic development.
Identify examples of renewable and non-renewable resources and their uses.
Examine the impact of human activities on natural resources, including overexploitation and pollution.
Explore sustainable practices for managing and conserving natural resources for future generations.