Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Natural resources are materials or substances that occur naturally in the environment and can be used by humans for various purposes, such as energy production, food, or building materials.
These are natural resources that can be replenished or replaced within a human lifespan, such as solar energy or wind power.
Non-renewable Resources: These are natural resources that cannot be easily replenished within a human lifespan, such as fossil fuels like coal or oil.
Sustainable Development: This refers to using natural resources in a way that meets present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.