Renewable and Nonrenewable Resources

Natural resources are materials found in nature that humans use. They are divided into two groups: renewable resources, which can be replenished naturally in a short time, and nonrenewable resources, which take millions of years to form and will eventually run out if overused.

Renewable Resources

• Solar energy — energy from the sun, available every day and never runs out.
• Wind energy — moving air turns turbines to generate electricity.
• Hydroelectric power — moving water drives generators to produce electricity.
• Wood and timber — trees can be replanted, making wood a renewable resource.
• Biomass energy — energy produced by burning organic material such as crop waste.

Nonrenewable Resources

• Coal — a solid fossil fuel burned in power stations to generate electricity.
• Crude oil — refined into gasoline, diesel, and plastics; formed from ancient marine organisms.
• Natural gas — used for cooking, heating, and electricity generation.
• Minerals (iron ore, gold) — mined from the earth; supplies are finite and cannot regenerate.

Fossil Fuels

Coal, oil, and natural gas are called fossil fuels because they formed from the remains of ancient organisms buried millions of years ago. Once we burn them, they are gone forever — they cannot be replaced on any human timescale.

Why Conservation Matters

• Using resources wisely reduces waste and extends how long supplies last.
• Switching to renewable energy (solar, wind, hydro) protects nonrenewable reserves.
• Burning fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide, contributing to climate change.
• Conservation today ensures resources are available for future generations.