Exploiting Natural Resources

The resources that exist naturally and without actions of humankind are known as natural resources. Some of the varied natural resources that are available on Earth are sunlight, water, land and atmosphere as well as all crops, vegetation and animal life. They can also exist in another form that needs to be processed to obtain the resource such as metal ores, petroleum, rare earth metals and various forms of energy. They can be classified in different ways such as origin and stage of development. On the basis of origin, they are classified as biotic and abiotic resources. They can also be categorized as potential resources, actual resources, reserve resources and stock resources, on the basis of their stage of development. Using natural resources for economic growth, generally at the cost of environmental degradation is referred to as exploitation of natural resources. The consumption of a resource faster than it can be replenished is known as depletion. The practices involved in the protection and restoration of natural resources are referred to as natural resource conservation. The topics included in this textbook on natural resources are of utmost significance and bound to provide incredible insights to readers. Some of the diverse topics covered in this book address the varied branches that fall under this category. It will provide comprehensive knowledge to the readers.