Natural resources are materials and components found in nature that humans use with minimal modification. They include a wide range of natural substances and energy sources essential for life, economic activities, and cultural value. Key types of natural resources include:
- Renewable resources : These can be replenished naturally over time. Examples are sunlight, water, air, timber, plants, animals, and marine life. For instance, oxygen is renewed by trees and plants, and water cycles through natural processes, although some freshwater sources are being depleted faster than replenished
- Non-renewable resources : These exist in finite amounts and cannot be replenished within a human timescale once depleted. Examples include minerals, fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal), soil, and metals like iron, copper, uranium, and bauxite
Natural resources serve as the raw materials for food, fuel, construction, manufacturing, and energy production. They are fundamental to ecosystems and human survival but are often subject to overuse, depletion, and environmental damage. Sustainable management and conservation efforts are critical to preserving these resources for future generations
. In summary, natural resources encompass:
- Air
- Water (freshwater and marine)
- Soil
- Minerals and metals
- Fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal)
- Forests and timber
- Plants and animals (including fish and wildlife)
- Sunlight
These resources are drawn from the environment and are essential for various human needs and ecological functions
