Natural Resources - Types and Examples, Definition, FAQs

Natural Resources - Types of Examples, Definition, FAQs

Edited By Team Careers360 | Updated on Jul 02, 2025 04:46 PM IST

What are the Different types of Resources?

Natural resources
Man-made resources

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What are the Different types of Resources?
Types of Natural Resources:
Important Types of Natural Resources:

Natural resources: Natural resources as the name suggests are those resources which are obtained from nature in natural ways i.e. human help is not needed for this purpose. Or We can also define natural resources as those resources which are found in the environment and further developed without any interaction of Humans. The Name of natural resources are Sunlight, air, water, soil, plants, animals and fossil fuels. Natural resources are those resources which occur naturally and these useful for living beings and by some modifications or purifications it can also be used for many other purposes like clothes, metals, fertilizers, fossil fuels etc.

Natural Resources

Like in the picture we can define that water is used for drinking purposes and oil present underwater is the basic need of today i.e. used as a fuel. Forests have a number of uses, trees present in forests give us rubber, cotton, wood, food and many plants are used as a medicine. Forests are known as homes for wildlife animals. Rocks are necessary for construction and act as a shelter for many animals. Minerals are one of the most important natural resources as many used things like jewelry, ceramics, glass, iron, steel, etc are originated through minerals. Agriculture is said to be the lifeline for us as we produce food from this and agriculture is done due to the presence of soil. Animals are also said to be a natural resource as this provides us many useful items like wool, leather, silk, etc, and also provides us food.

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Types of Natural Resources:

On the basis of availability of resources these are categorized into two different categories known by the names:

1. Renewable Natural Resource: Renewable resources as the name suggested renewable i.e. can be used again and again. Those resources which are not going to be extinguished or we can say resources that are infinite in nature and can be used how many times we want are known as renewable natural resources. These resources are said to be sustainable in nature. These are useful for us due to their economically cheap price and eco-friendly nature. These refill quickly for example these will never run out from our system.

The main examples of Renewable Natural resources are wind, water, forest, etc.

2. Non-Renewable Natural Resource: Non-renewable i.e. those sources which cannot be renewed or those sources which are presently limited in nature that with the continuous use of these resources it can be exhausted from nature. Therefore these types of resources are known as exhaustible in nature. These are also costly and create pollution said to be less eco-friendly in nature. These can be refilled very slowly or after some time we will not be able to refill them as these are limited in nature.

Fossil fuels, minerals, etc are kept in the category of Non-renewable natural resources.

Hence these two types suggest that all natural resources are not renewable in nature.

Pictures of natural resources: Examples of resources are given below.

Renewable and non-renewable resources

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Important Types of Natural Resources:

There are a number of natural resources which may or may be renewable in nature. Out of all these resources, the main five natural resources are explained as follows:

1. Air: Air is one of the most important natural resources and is kept in the category of Renewable natural resources. As we know air is the gases present in our atmosphere or we can say that the atmosphere is because of gases or air present. Air is important for all living organisms to survive on this planet. The environment contains a number of gases in its air like Oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, etc. Life is not possible without good air so we have to take all strict actions to purify our air or for reducing air pollution.

2. Water: The second major natural resource is Water and it is kept in the category of Renewable natural resources. It is already known to us that 70% of our earth is covered with water. The major resources of water are rainfall, lakes, rivers, ponds, sea, etc. Out of these 70% water bodies, only 2% of water is pure in nature which we drink. We can’t imagine our life without the existence of water. Major uses of water are drinking, cooking, cleaning, etc. Hence we have to save water as much as we can and should not pollute the water by adding industrial or household waste into water bodies as it will be harmful to us and as well as for aquatic animals.

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3. Soil: Soil is the most important resource for us and plants. Plants grow in soil and the crop we need to prepare food is also grown in the soil. Soil is also kept in the category of natural renewable resources as with the breakage of big mountains they get converted into soil. Soil consists of many organic minerals, air, water, etc. which are helpful for any plant or crop to grow. Soil is the basic source of nutrients for plants and animals and for many insects it is home i.e. soil provides shelter to them. Soil is used for agricultural purposes.

4. Iron: Iron is made up from silica and has so many uses like it is used in the construction of the building, other household things like almirah, table, chair, etc and also used in automobiles like cars, buses, etc. Iron is also used in making strong weapons. Iron is said to be non-renewable in nature; it cannot be renewed so we have to use this resource for our needs only.

5. Forests: Forest is said to be the most important natural resource which is useful for us as well as for animals. It provides shelter to animals and also provides food to them. Trees in forests also become the major resources of wood, paper, medicines, etc for us. But with the increasing population, the demand for construction increases which reduces the forest area and it will put an adverse effect on our environment as trees are the major sources which reduce the pollution.

This suggests that natural resources are very important for us so we have to follow some methods to conserve natural resources which can be discussed as follows:

Don’t waste water.
Save fuel by sharing the cabs, take public transport and for near distances use bicycles and walking. This will save the fuel as fuel is non-renewable in nature.
Majorly use renewable energy resources rather than non-renewable one like using solar energy rather than consuming much light energy.
Always remember the three R rules – Reuse, Reduce, Recycle.
Always dig down the vegetable waste it helps in making compost which can be used further.
Say no to those items which create pollution like plastic bags etc.

By understanding the concept of the use of natural resources we are able to save them.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many types of resources are there?

There are two types of resources,

(a) Natural resources

(b) Man-made resources

2. Define exhaustible natural resources.

Exhaustible natural resources are those resources that are in limited quantities also known as non-renewable resources and in future they may get exhausted. Example: Fossil fuels, minerals.

3. Sand is said to be a renewable or non-renewable natural resource?

Sand is a renewable natural resource it can be originated from rocks and minerals again and again.

4. Give three examples of Renewable natural resources.

Water, wind, and forest.

5. What are the sources of water?

The main sources of water are rainfall, lake, ponds, sea, rivers, etc.

6. What do you mean by deforestation?

The term Deforestation corresponds to the increase in population which causes more demand for housing and construction due to which forest land gets converted to non-forest use.

7. What's the difference between biotic and abiotic natural resources?

Biotic natural resources are derived from living organisms, such as plants and animals. Examples include forests, wildlife, and fish. Abiotic natural resources are non-living and include water, air, minerals, and fossil fuels.

8. Can you explain the concept of renewable resources?

Renewable resources are those that can be replenished naturally within a human lifetime or less. Examples include solar energy, wind power, and sustainably managed forests. These resources can be used repeatedly without depleting their supply if managed properly.

9. What makes a resource non-renewable?

Non-renewable resources are finite and cannot be replenished within a human timescale. They typically form over millions of years and are consumed faster than they can be naturally replaced. Examples include fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas) and minerals.

10. What are natural resources?

Natural resources are materials or substances that occur naturally in the environment and can be used by humans for economic gain or to meet their needs. These include air, water, soil, minerals, fossil fuels, plants, and animals.

11. How are natural resources classified?

Natural resources are typically classified into two main categories: renewable and non-renewable resources. Renewable resources can be replenished naturally over time, while non-renewable resources exist in finite amounts and cannot be easily replenished.

12. How does climate change affect natural resources?

Climate change can significantly impact natural resources by altering ecosystems, changing precipitation patterns, and affecting biodiversity. It can lead to water scarcity, reduced agricultural productivity, and the loss of habitats for various species, ultimately affecting the availability and distribution of natural resources.

13. How do natural resources contribute to biodiversity?

Natural resources, particularly ecosystems like forests, wetlands, and coral reefs, provide habitats for diverse species. They support food webs, offer breeding grounds, and maintain ecological balance. The variety of natural resources in an area directly correlates with its biodiversity.

14. What is the tragedy of the commons in relation to natural resources?

The tragedy of the commons is a concept where individuals, acting in their own self-interest, collectively deplete a shared resource, even when it's clear that it's not in anyone's long-term interest. This often applies to natural resources like fisheries or grazing lands, where overexploitation can lead to resource collapse.

15. How does population growth impact natural resource consumption?

Population growth typically leads to increased demand for natural resources, as more people require food, water, energy, and materials. This can accelerate resource depletion, pollution, and habitat destruction if not managed sustainably, putting pressure on both renewable and non-renewable resources.

16. What role do forests play as a natural resource?

Forests are crucial natural resources that provide timber, fuel, and non-timber products like fruits and medicinal plants. They also offer essential ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration, water regulation, soil conservation, and habitat for wildlife. Sustainable forest management is key to maintaining these benefits.

17. How does water qualify as both a renewable and non-renewable resource?

Water is generally considered a renewable resource because it's replenished through the natural water cycle. However, it can also be viewed as non-renewable in certain contexts. Groundwater in some aquifers is replenished so slowly that it's effectively non-renewable on human timescales. Additionally, pollution or overuse can make water resources temporarily or permanently unavailable.

18. What is resource depletion, and why is it a concern?

Resource depletion refers to the consumption of a resource faster than it can be replenished. It's a concern because it can lead to scarcity, increased costs, environmental degradation, and potential conflicts over remaining resources. This is particularly problematic for non-renewable resources.

19. What is sustainable resource management?

Sustainable resource management involves using natural resources in a way that meets current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It focuses on balancing economic, environmental, and social considerations to ensure long-term resource availability.

20. How does urbanization affect natural resource consumption?

Urbanization typically increases natural resource consumption due to higher population densities and changing lifestyles. Cities require more energy, water, and materials for infrastructure and daily living. However, well-planned urban areas can also lead to more efficient resource use through economies of scale and shared infrastructure.

21. What is the concept of "natural capital" in resource economics?

Natural capital refers to the world's stocks of natural assets, including geology, soil, air, water, and all living organisms. It's an economic concept that recognizes the value of ecosystem services and natural resources in supporting human well-being and economic activity. This concept helps in accounting for the true cost of resource use and degradation.

22. How do natural resources impact the economy?

Natural resources play a crucial role in the economy by providing raw materials for industries, energy sources, and the basis for agriculture. They contribute to job creation, export revenues, and overall economic growth. However, overexploitation can lead to resource depletion and economic instability.

23. What is the role of technology in natural resource management?

Technology plays a crucial role in natural resource management by improving efficiency in resource extraction and use, enabling better monitoring and conservation efforts, and developing alternatives to scarce resources. Examples include renewable energy technologies, precision agriculture, and remote sensing for forest management.

24. How do natural resources contribute to a country's geopolitical power?

Countries rich in natural resources often have geopolitical advantages. They can leverage their resources for economic growth, energy independence, and diplomatic influence. However, the "resource curse" phenomenon suggests that resource wealth can sometimes lead to economic and political instability if not managed properly.

25. What is the concept of "peak oil" and how does it relate to natural resources?

"Peak oil" refers to the hypothetical point when global oil production reaches its maximum rate, after which it will gradually decline. This concept highlights the finite nature of non-renewable resources and the need for alternative energy sources. It's part of the broader discussion on resource depletion and sustainable energy transitions.

26. What is the role of international agreements in managing global natural resources?

International agreements play a crucial role in managing global natural resources by setting standards for sustainable use, conservation, and fair distribution. Examples include the Paris Agreement for climate change, the Convention on Biological Diversity, and various fisheries management treaties. These agreements aim to address transboundary resource issues and promote global cooperation.

27. How does the concept of "virtual water" relate to natural resource management?

Virtual water refers to the hidden flow of water in the production and trade of goods and services. For example, producing 1 kg of beef requires about 15,000 liters of water. Understanding virtual water helps in managing water resources more effectively by considering the water footprint of different products and trade patterns.

28. What is the relationship between natural resources and indigenous rights?

Indigenous peoples often have deep connections to their traditional lands and the natural resources therein. Recognizing indigenous rights in natural resource management can lead to more sustainable practices and protect cultural heritage. However, conflicts often arise when external interests seek to exploit resources on indigenous lands.

29. What is the concept of "resource curse" and how does it affect resource-rich countries?

The "resource curse" refers to the paradox that countries with an abundance of natural resources, particularly non-renewable resources like minerals and fuels, often tend to have less economic growth, less democracy, and worse development outcomes than countries with fewer natural resources. This can be due to factors like economic volatility, corruption, and neglect of other economic sectors.

30. How does the concept of "planetary boundaries" relate to natural resources?

The planetary boundaries concept identifies nine processes that regulate the stability and resilience of the Earth system. Many of these boundaries directly relate to natural resources, such as freshwater use, land-system change, and biogeochemical flows. Staying within these boundaries is crucial for sustainable resource use and maintaining Earth's life-support systems.

31. What is the role of traditional ecological knowledge in natural resource management?

Traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) refers to the evolving knowledge acquired by indigenous and local communities over hundreds or thousands of years. TEK can provide valuable insights for sustainable resource management, offering time-tested practices and a holistic understanding of local ecosystems. Integrating TEK with scientific approaches can lead to more effective and culturally appropriate resource management strategies.

32. How do natural resources relate to the concept of environmental justice?

Environmental justice is concerned with the fair distribution of environmental benefits and burdens. Natural resource extraction and use often disproportionately affect certain communities, particularly low-income and minority populations. Environmental justice seeks to ensure that all people have equal protection from environmental and health hazards and equal access to the decision-making process regarding natural resources in their communities.

33. What is the role of natural resources in the sustainable development goals (SDGs)?

Natural resources are integral to many of the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. They directly relate to goals such as clean water and sanitation (SDG 6), affordable and clean energy (SDG 7), and life on land and below water (SDGs 14 and 15). Sustainable management of natural resources is crucial for achieving these goals and ensuring long-term human well-being.

34. What is the concept of "resource nationalism" and how does it affect global resource management?

Resource nationalism refers to the tendency of countries to assert greater control over their natural resources, often through policies like nationalization or increased taxation of resource extraction. This can affect global resource management by altering international trade patterns, investment flows, and geopolitical relationships. It often arises from a desire to maximize domestic benefits from natural resources.

35. How do natural resources relate to the concept of "planetary health"?

Planetary health is a field that focuses on the interdependencies between human health and the state of Earth's natural systems. Natural resources are central to this concept, as their sustainable management is crucial for maintaining both ecosystem and human health. Degradation of natural resources can lead to negative health outcomes through pollution, reduced food security, and increased disease transmission.

36. How do natural resources influence patterns of human migration?

Natural resources can significantly influence human migration patterns. Resource scarcity, such as water shortages or land degradation, can drive people to migrate in search of better conditions. Conversely, resource abundance can attract migrants seeking economic opportunities, as seen in mining boom towns. Climate change, which is linked to resource use, is increasingly recognized as a driver of migration.

37. How do natural resources contribute to global conflicts?

Natural resources can contribute to conflicts when they are scarce, valuable, or unevenly distributed. Competition for resources like oil, water, or minerals can lead to geopolitical tensions, civil wars, or international disputes. This is often referred to as "resource wars" or "resource conflicts."

38. What is the environmental impact of extracting non-renewable resources?

Extracting non-renewable resources often has significant environmental impacts, including habitat destruction, soil and water pollution, air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. Mining and drilling operations can lead to landscape alterations, ecosystem disruptions, and long-term environmental degradation.

39. What are ecosystem services, and how do they relate to natural resources?

Ecosystem services are the benefits that humans obtain from ecosystems, which are integral parts of natural resources. These services include provisioning (e.g., food, water), regulating (e.g., climate regulation, water purification), supporting (e.g., nutrient cycling, soil formation), and cultural services (e.g., recreation, spiritual values). Understanding and valuing these services is crucial for sustainable resource management.

40. How do natural resources impact global trade patterns?

Natural resources significantly influence global trade patterns. Resource-rich countries often export raw materials, while countries lacking certain resources import them. This creates interdependencies and can shape international relations. The global distribution of resources like oil, rare earth elements, and agricultural products greatly affects trade flows and economic strategies.

41. What is the role of biodiversity in maintaining natural resources?

Biodiversity is crucial for maintaining the health and resilience of ecosystems, which are themselves natural resources. A diverse ecosystem is more stable and better able to withstand disturbances. Biodiversity also provides a wider range of potential resources, including genetic diversity for agriculture and potential sources for new medicines.

42. How does soil qualify as a natural resource?

Soil is a vital natural resource that supports agriculture, forestry, and ecosystem functions. It forms very slowly but can be rapidly degraded. Soil provides nutrients for plant growth, filters water, supports biodiversity, and plays a role in carbon sequestration. Sustainable soil management is crucial for food security and environmental health.

43. How do natural resources relate to the concept of carrying capacity?

Carrying capacity is the maximum population size that an environment can sustain indefinitely given the food, habitat, water, and other resources available. Natural resources directly determine an area's carrying capacity. Overexploitation of resources can reduce carrying capacity, potentially leading to population crashes or environmental degradation.

44. How do natural resources influence urban planning and development?

Natural resources significantly influence urban planning and development. Cities need to consider water availability, energy sources, and building materials in their growth plans. Urban planners also work to preserve green spaces and integrate natural elements for ecosystem services like flood control and air purification, enhancing urban resilience and livability.

45. How do natural resources contribute to the circular economy concept?

In a circular economy, resources are used, reused, and recycled to minimize waste and maximize value. Natural resources play a key role as inputs, but the goal is to reduce the extraction of new resources by keeping materials in use for as long as possible. This approach aims to decouple economic growth from resource consumption.

46. What is the role of genetic resources in natural resource management?

Genetic resources, which include the genetic material of plants, animals, and microorganisms, are valuable natural resources. They are crucial for breeding programs in agriculture and aquaculture, development of new medicines, and maintaining biodiversity. The conservation and fair use of genetic resources are governed by international agreements like the Nagoya Protocol.

47. What is the role of natural resources in climate change mitigation and adaptation?

Natural resources play a dual role in climate change. Some, like fossil fuels, contribute to climate change when used. Others, like forests and oceans, act as carbon sinks, helping to mitigate climate change. Additionally, natural resources like water and biodiversity are crucial for adaptation to climate change impacts. Sustainable management of these resources is key to both mitigation and adaptation strategies.

48. How does the concept of "ecological footprint" relate to natural resource consumption?

The ecological footprint measures human demand on nature, comparing the resources people consume with the earth's ability to regenerate them. It's expressed in terms of the biologically productive area needed to provide the resources used and absorb the waste produced. This concept helps illustrate how natural resource consumption relates to the earth's carrying capacity.

49. How do natural resources influence global energy transitions?

Natural resources play a central role in global energy transitions. The shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources involves changing from one set of natural resources (coal, oil, gas) to another (sun, wind, geothermal heat). This transition is driven by concerns over resource depletion, climate change, and energy security, and it has significant implications for global economics and geopolitics.

50. What is the role of natural resources in disaster risk reduction?

Natural resources play a crucial role in disaster risk reduction. Healthy ecosystems like forests, wetlands, and coral reefs can act as natural buffers against hazards like floods, storms, and tsunamis. Sustainable management of resources like water and soil can reduce the risk of droughts and landslides. Understanding and maintaining these ecosystem services is an important part of disaster preparedness and resilience.

51. How does the concept of "nature-based solutions" relate to natural resource management?

Nature-based solutions involve working with nature to address societal challenges, offering an alternative or complement to traditional engineered solutions. This approach leverages natural resources and ecosystem services to provide benefits like flood protection, carbon sequestration, and air purification. It represents a shift towards more sustainable and resilient resource management practices.

52. What is the relationship between natural resources and food security?

Natural resources are fundamental to food security. Soil, water, and biodiversity are essential for agriculture and fisheries. Climate, which is influenced by natural resource use, affects crop yields and food production patterns. Sustainable management of these resources is crucial for ensuring long-term food security, especially in the face of challenges like population growth and climate change.

53. What is the concept of "resource efficiency" and why is it important?

Resource efficiency refers to using Earth's limited resources in a sustainable manner while minimizing impacts on the environment. It involves reducing the amount of resources needed to produce goods and services, minimizing waste, and ensuring that resources are used and reused efficiently. This concept is crucial for sustainable development, as it helps decouple economic growth from environmental degradation.

54. How do natural resources relate to the concept of "bioeconomy"?

The bioeconomy refers to the production of renewable biological resources and their conversion into food, feed, bio-based products, and bioenergy. It relies heavily on natural resources, particularly biomass from agriculture, forestry, and marine environments. The bioeconomy concept aims to reduce dependence on fossil resources, promoting more sustainable use of biological resources.

55. What is the role of natural resources in urban-rural linkages?

Natural resources form a crucial link between urban and rural areas. Cities depend on rural areas for resources like food, water, and energy, while rural areas often rely on urban markets and services. Understanding and managing these resource flows is