Natural resources are materials or components that can be found in the environment and are utilized by humans for various purposes. They are typically classified into two main categories: renewable and non-renewable resources.
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Renewable Resources: These are resources that can be replenished naturally over time. Examples include:
- Solar energy
- Wind energy
- Water (hydropower)
- Biomass
- Trees (forestry)
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Non-Renewable Resources: These are resources that exist in finite amounts and cannot be replenished within a human timeframe. Examples include:
- Fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas)
- Minerals (gold, silver, copper)
- Nuclear fuels (uranium)
Natural resources play a crucial role in the economy, providing essential materials for energy, construction, manufacturing, and food production. However, sustainable management of these resources is critical to ensure that they continue to be available for future generations and to minimize environmental impact.