Chapter # 6 – Natural Resources
6.1 Resources
6.1.1 Define Natural Resources.
Natural resources are materials or substances that occur naturally in the environment and are used by humans for economic gain or to fulfill their needs. These resources are derived from the Earth and include renewable resources like sunlight, wind, water, and forests, as well as non-renewable resources like fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas), minerals (gold, iron, copper), and land. Natural resources are essential for the functioning of economies and societies, as they provide raw materials for various industries, support agricultural activities, and contribute to the overall well-being of human populations.
In simple words, Natural resources are things that come from nature and help people. They can be things like sunlight, water, trees, minerals like gold and iron, and things we use to make energy like oil and coal. We use natural resources to make things we need and to make our lives better.
Some Examples of Natural Resources:
- Water
- Air
- Sunlight
- Soil
- Forests
- Minerals (such as gold, silver, iron, copper)
- Fossil fuels (such as coal, oil, natural gas)
- Wind
- Wildlife
- Agricultural land