How Many Types of Natural Resources are There

Introduction

Natural resources are a vital component of our daily lives, and they play a critical role in the functioning of our planet. From the air we breathe to the food we eat, natural resources are the building blocks of life as we know it. They are the foundation of human civilization, fueling economic growth and development, and providing the raw materials that are essential for the production of goods and services. However, it is important to note that the availability of natural resources is not unlimited, and it is crucial that we use them responsibly and sustainably to ensure their long-term availability for future generations.

Types of Natural Resources

Natural resources are divided into three categories. They are

• Perpetual renewable resources

• Intermediate renewable resources

• Non-renewable resources.

Perpetual renewable resources

Perpetual renewable resources are those that are naturally replenished by the Earth's processes, such as solar energy and geothermal heat. These resources, like the Sun's constant energy, are able to continuously power the planet's winds, ocean currents, precipitation and plant life. Solar and geothermal energy is being utilized more and more in nations' electrical grids as they are a sustainable source that will never run out, no matter how much we use them in human time scales. These resources are truly perpetual, always being regenerated by the Earth's natural cycles.

Intermediate Renewable Resources

Intermediate renewable resources, such as freshwater, soil, crops and trees for timber, are resources that can be replenished over time but can also be depleted if not managed properly. These resources require a certain amount of time to regenerate or grow, and if used excessively, can become scarce. For example, freshwater is an intermediate renewable resource that is replenished through the water cycle, where evaporation from saltwater oceans is followed by precipitation as freshwater rain. However, if we use this freshwater faster than it can be replenished, it can become scarce and must be carefully managed to ensure its sustainability. Similarly, soil, crops and trees for timber also require proper management to prevent depletion and ensure continued availability.

Non-renewable Resources

Non-renewable resources are natural resources that cannot be replenished in a human lifespan, such as fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas), minerals (copper, aluminium, gold), and nuclear fuels (uranium). These resources are finite and their extraction and use contribute to environmental degradation and climate change. Other than non-renewable resources which include metals, lithium and rare-Earth elements (REEs), it’s important to remember that while we may eventually run out of mineable metals and REEs, with careful waste management that can be recovered through recycling. It is not the same for fossil fuels; we are using them for energy and altering their chemistry so that they are no longer useful.

Conclusion

Natural resources are vital for daily life and the planet's functioning. They are divided into perpetual renewable, intermediate renewable, and non-renewable resources. It's important to use them responsibly and sustainably to ensure their long-term availability.