Natural Resources
Natural resources are materials and substances that occur naturally in the environment. They are essential for the survival of all living organisms and are used to produce a variety of products. Natural resources include air, water, soil, minerals, plants, animals, and energy sources such as sunlight and wind. They are often divided into renewable and non-renewable resources, depending on their ability to be replenished.
History of Natural Resources
The concept of natural resources has been around since ancient times. The ancient Greeks and Romans believed that the Earth was made up of four elements: air, water, earth, and fire. These elements were seen as the building blocks of all life and were thought to be essential for the survival of humans. In the Middle Ages, natural resources were seen as gifts from God and were used to sustain the population. In the modern era, natural resources are seen as finite and are used to produce a variety of products.
Comparison of Natural Resources
| Resource | Renewable | Non-Renewable |
|---|---|---|
| Air | Yes | No |
| Water | Yes | No |
| Soil | Yes | No |
| Minerals | No | Yes |
| Plants | Yes | No |
| Animals | Yes | No |
| Sunlight | Yes | No |
| Wind | Yes | No |
Summary
Natural resources are materials and substances that occur naturally in the environment. They are essential for the survival of all living organisms and are used to produce a variety of products. Natural resources are divided into renewable and non-renewable resources, depending on their ability to be replenished. For more information about natural resources, visit websites such as the United States Geological Survey, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the World Wildlife Fund.
See Also
- Renewable Resources
- Non-Renewable Resources
- Sustainable Development
- Environmental Conservation
- Resource Management
- Ecosystem Services
- Biodiversity
- Climate Change
- Pollution
- Habitat Loss
