Understanding Natural Resources: Types, Importance, and Conservation

What are Natural Resources?

Natural resources are materials or substances that occur naturally in the environment and are not created by human actions. These resources are found naturally on Earth and can be used by humans. Examples include air, sunlight, water, soil, stone, plants, animals, and fossil fuels.

Natural resources are materials useful to humans, such as food, building materials, clothing, metals, water, and energy sources like geothermal power. These resources have been studied extensively by natural sciences.

Types of Natural Resources

Natural resources can be classified into two main types based on their availability:

Renewable Resources:
- These resources are available in infinite quantities and can be used repeatedly.
- Examples: Forests, wind, water.

Non-Renewable Resources:

- These resources are limited in abundance and may run out in the future.
- Examples: Fossil fuels, minerals.

Difference between Renewable and Non-Renewable Resources

Renewable Resource	Non-Renewable Resource
Can be renewed and are available in infinite quantity	Limited stock and cannot be renewed once consumed
Sustainable in nature	Exhaustible in nature
Low cost and environment-friendly	High cost and less environment-friendly
Replenish quickly	Replenish slowly or not at all

The 5 Most Important Natural Resources

Air:
- Clean air is essential for the survival of plants, animals, and humans. Reducing air pollution is crucial.

Water:
- 70% of Earth is covered in water, but only 2% is freshwater. Efforts should be made to conserve and use water wisely.

Soil:
- Soil is rich in nutrients and helps plants grow.

Iron:
- Found as mineral silica, iron is used to make strong tools, transportation, and buildings.

Forests:
- Forests provide clean air and help maintain the ecological balance. Trees are often cut for housing and construction, so conservation is important.