Natural resources are elements extracted from nature that satisfy human needs
You Natural resources are elements present in nature that satisfy the needs of living beings. Its use is made both for daily well-being and for economic and industrial development.
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Despite the importance of exploration, they must be well managed and preserved. This is because they are divided into two types: renewable ones, which are regenerated in nature, and non-renewable ones, which are limited and can run out.
From the atmosphere to the lithosphere, natural resources They are found in the different layers of Planet Earth. But this does not mean that they are well distributed and equally accessible to the entire population. Therefore, the use and exploration of these elements is a daily focus of geopolitical debates around the world.
What are natural resources?
Natural resources They are elements provided by nature that serve to satisfy the needs of man and other living beings. Its use can be done both in economic and personal activities.
Some examples of this use can be seen in energy generation, raw material production, food and also in the development of society. Therefore, its availability is extremely important for the maintenance of life on Planet Earth.
Although they are found in different layers of the planet, they are not always equally accessible. An example of this is oil. Strategic for the evolution of society, the substance has its reserves concentrated in a few countries. The dispute over the control of this natural resource still generates geopolitical discussions around the world.
Renewable and non-renewable resources
The origin of natural resources does not guarantee that they will always be available. They are divided into two groups: renewable AND non-renewable.
You Renewable natural resources are those that do not run out. In other words, they are renewed naturally or through human action in a quantity greater than that consumed. Even so, it is important to manage the use of these resources.
Water, wind (wind energy), plants, animals, wood and geothermal energy are some of the most famous examples. In addition to the advantage of being renewed, these resources are also considered more sustainable and cause less impact on the environment.
On the other hand, the Non-renewable natural resources are those that have a limited reserve and are not so easily renewed. Their regeneration can also occur, but on a geological time scale.
In this way they must be controlled even more than renewables. Coal and oil are examples of non-renewable sources. Due to scarcity, this group is often the subject of geopolitical debates.
Types of natural resources
Natural resources are divided into four types: water, mineral, biological and energy. This differentiation is mainly based on the origin of the materials.
Waterfall: natural water resources are those that come from water. It can be found in rivers, lakes, reservoirs, oceans, underground aquifers, etc. Although 71% of the Earth’s surface is covered by water, 96.5% of that amount is found in the oceans (salt water). Although it has other functions, this is not suitable for human consumption.
This type of natural resource is used in agriculture, industry, energy production (hydroelectric power plants) and in the maintenance of biodiversity, in addition, of course, to consumption. Although it is renewable, it must be well managed to avoid periods of scarcity.
Minerals: These mineral resources are defined as non-renewable, as they take thousands of years to return to nature. Present in the lithosphere, they are explored through human action.
They are divided into metallic (iron, aluminium, lead, gold, silver, etc.) and non-metallic (sulphur, phosphates and rocks). The use of these resources occurs mainly in industry, be it accessories, vehicles, household appliances or others.
organic: are those obtained through vegetation and living beings. They can be used in food, medical, construction and other industries. Trees are prime examples. Despite their ability to renew themselves, attention must be paid to their management.
Energy: Natural energy resources are those capable of providing energy, as the name suggests. Natural gas, oil and coal are some examples. Elements from other categories can also be part of this.
Importance of natural resources
Natural resources are fundamental for the survival and development of human beings. In addition to their importance for maintaining biodiversity, they are used for industry in different sectors and mainly for energy production.
Due to their distribution and certain scarcity in some places on Planet Earth, natural resources are the subject of geopolitical debates every day. Although its exploitation is fundamental to the economy, good management and correct use cannot be neglected.
Source: Terra
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
