With references and citations, what is Natural resources?

Natural resources are materials or substances that occur in nature and can be used for economic gain. These resources can be classified into two main categories: renewable and non-renewable.

Renewable resources are those that can be replenished or regenerated over time, such as sunlight, wind, water, and forests. These resources are considered sustainable because they can be used without depleting them completely.

Non-renewable resources, on the other hand, are finite and cannot be replenished once they are depleted. Examples of non-renewable resources include fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas), minerals (gold, silver, copper), and nuclear energy sources.

Natural resources play a crucial role in the economy and society as they provide raw materials for various industries, such as agriculture, mining, and manufacturing. They also contribute to the overall well-being of a population by providing essential goods and services.

It is important to manage natural resources sustainably to ensure their availability for future generations. This involves conservation efforts, responsible extraction practices, and the development of alternative sources of energy.

References:

1. United Nations. (2019). Natural Resources. Retrieved from: https://www.un.org/en/sections/issues-depth/natural-resources/index.html

2. World Wildlife Fund. (n.d.). Natural Resources. Retrieved from: https://www.worldwildlife.org/threats/natural-resources

3. U.S. Geological Survey. (2021). Natural Resources. Retrieved from: https://www.usgs.gov/science/natural-resources

4. National Geographic. (2021). Natural Resources. Retrieved from: https://www.nationalgeographic.org/encyclopedia/natural-resources/

Definition of Natural Resources

Natural resources refer to materials and substances derived from Earth's natural environment that are essential for human survival and well-being (Giddings et al., 2002). They include:

- Renewable resources: Resources that can be replenished naturally over a relatively short period, such as water, air, plants, and animals.
- Non-renewable resources: Resources that cannot be replenished within a human lifetime, such as fossil fuels, minerals, and metals.

Classification of Natural Resources

Natural resources can be classified into different types based on their characteristics and uses (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, 1999):

- Biotic: Resources derived from living organisms, such as forests, fisheries, and wildlife.
- Abiotic: Resources derived from non-living sources, such as minerals, water, and metals.
- Energy: Resources that provide energy, such as fossil fuels, solar power, and nuclear energy.

Importance of Natural Resources

Natural resources are crucial for:

- Human health and well-being: Providing food, water, shelter, and medicines.
- Economic development: Supporting industries, agriculture, and energy production.
- Environmental sustainability: Regulating climate, maintaining biodiversity, and providing ecosystem services.

References

- Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. (1999). Natural Resources Management and Sustainable Agriculture. [https://www.fao.org/3/w0078e/w0078e00.htm](https://www.fao.org/3/w0078e/w0078e00.htm)
- Giddings, C., Hopwood, B., & O'Brien, G. (2002). Sustainable Consumption: A Review of the Literature and its Future Directions. Journal of Cleaner Production, 10(6), 607-621.

With citations and reference write a six pages on plastic bags impact on environment