NATURAL RESOURCES

Introduction to Natural Resources Resources are defined as a source of supply or

support that is usually held in reserve, it means support, it is something which meets the needs of a man.

“Re” means again and sources means place from where something comes again and again

Natural Resources are those gifted by nature. A substance becomes a resource when it is

utilized.

Classification of Natural Resources• On the basis of availability and abundance

natural resources can be classified into two parts

• Inexhaustible Resources• Exhaustible Resources

Inexhaustible Resources• These Resources are present in unlimited

quantity in nature and they are not likely to be exhausted by human activities.• Some of the inexhaustible Resources remain

unaffected by human activity in term of quality and quantity while many other undergo some changes in their quality while others may undergo some changes in their quality. E.g. air.• Other examples of inexhaustible resources are

solar energy, wind energy etc

Exhaustible Resources• These resources are provided by nature in

limited quantity and their constant use is likely to exhaust them in near future. • These Resources can further be classified into

two parts:-• a) Renewable Resources• b) Non Renewable Resources

Renewable Resources

• These resources have a tendency to regenerate themselves within a reasonable time by processes such as recycling, reproduction or replacement. • Examples: Plants, Water etc• However if the rate of reproduction of these

sources is less than the rate of consumption a time will come when they will get completely exhausted.

Non Renewable Sources

• These resources cannot be regenerated or recycled or replaced after use.• The sources which take a very long period for

recycling are also regarded as non renewable sources• Examples: Coal, Petroleum.

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