Natural Resources and Conservation

Natural resources are materials found in nature that people use for food, energy, clothing, and building. Some resources can be replaced fairly quickly — these are called renewable. Others take millions of years to form and can run out — these are called nonrenewable.

Renewable Resources

Renewable resources are naturally replenished within a human lifetime or can never run out. They are better for the environment because using them does not permanently deplete Earth's supply.

• Solar energy — energy from sunlight; will never run out while the Sun shines.
• Wind energy — energy from moving air; captured by wind turbines.
• Water (hydropower) — energy from flowing rivers and rainfall; replenished by the water cycle.
• Wood and forests — trees can be replanted and regrown over decades.
• Soil — healthy soil can be restored with good farming practices.

Nonrenewable Resources

Nonrenewable resources took millions of years to form and exist in limited amounts. Once they are used up, they cannot be easily replaced.

• Coal — a fossil fuel formed from ancient plants over millions of years; burned for electricity.
• Oil (petroleum) — a fossil fuel formed from ancient sea organisms; used for fuel and plastics.
• Natural gas — a fossil fuel used for heating and cooking.
• Iron ore — mined to make steel for buildings, cars, and tools.
• Gold and silver — rare metals mined from the Earth; used in jewelry and electronics.

Why Conservation Matters

• Nonrenewable resources will eventually run out if we keep using them at the current rate.
• Burning fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide, which contributes to climate change.
• Conserving resources protects wildlife habitats and keeps ecosystems healthy.
• Reducing waste and recycling help stretch limited resources further.