Earth's Natural Resources Overview

Earth's Natural Resources

• Natural resources are the things found in nature used by living things. Examples include water, forests, fossil fuels, minerals, plants, animals and air.
• Living things depend on natural resources for survival.
• Natural resources are categorized as renewable or non-renewable.
• Renewable resources can be replaced quickly:
  • Animals: provide food, materials (examples: cashmere, silk).
  • Plants: provide food, medicines, materials (examples: wood, furniture).
  • Water: essential for all living things, found in oceans, rivers, lakes, underground and in glaciers, but only a small percentage is freshwater.
  • Air: surrounds Earth (atmosphere), contains oxygen for breathing and carbon dioxide for plant photosynthesis.
• Non-renewable resources take a very long time to form:
  • Soil: supports life, provides water and minerals for plants, used for agriculture.
  • Metals: used for building (examples: iron, bridges, railroads).
  • Minerals: used for jewelry (examples: diamonds, gold).
  • Fossil fuels: formed from ancient plants and animals, heat and pressure turn them into fuels. Examples: coal, natural gas, petroleum (oil).
• Fossil fuels are used to produce electricity (coal), run automobiles (oil) and cook food (natural gas).

Using Natural Resources Wisely

• Natural resources are abundant but can be depleted if not used wisely.
• Conservation is the use of natural resources carefully.
• Ways to conserve:
  • Conserve water: take quick showers, turn off taps while brushing teeth.
  • Conserve fossil fuels: ride bikes, ventilate rooms, turn off lights.
  • Protect land, water and air: plant trees, dispose of chemicals and trash properly.
  • Reduce: buy only what is needed and use all purchases, eat all food on your plate.