Natural resources

Definition

Natural resources are materials or substances that occur in nature and can be used for economic gain, such as minerals, water, forests, and fertile land. In the context of geography and climate, these resources significantly influence human activity, settlement patterns, and economic development. Their availability and distribution shape how societies evolve and interact with their environment, affecting agriculture, trade, and cultural practices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. East Asia is rich in various natural resources, including coal, iron ore, and fertile plains that support agriculture.
2. The availability of water resources in East Asia has a significant impact on agricultural practices, influencing the types of crops grown in different regions.
3. During the Jomon period, natural resources like marine life and plant materials were crucial for sustenance and the development of early societies.
4. The Yayoi period saw advancements in resource utilization, particularly with the introduction of wet rice farming which required fertile land and ample water supply.
5. Natural resource distribution in East Asia has led to regional economic disparities, shaping trade relationships and patterns of urbanization.

Review Questions

• How did natural resources influence the settlement patterns and agricultural practices in East Asia?
  • Natural resources played a vital role in shaping settlement patterns in East Asia by determining where communities could thrive. Regions with fertile land and abundant water sources supported agriculture, leading to higher population densities and the establishment of permanent settlements. Conversely, areas with scarce resources often resulted in nomadic lifestyles or less dense populations. The reliance on specific natural resources also influenced the types of crops cultivated and the development of agricultural techniques.
• In what ways did the utilization of natural resources evolve from the Jomon to the Yayoi periods?
  • The transition from the Jomon to Yayoi periods marked a significant evolution in resource utilization. During the Jomon period, people primarily relied on hunting, fishing, and gathering, making use of available marine life and plant materials. However, with the Yayoi period came innovations like wet rice agriculture, which required careful management of land and water resources. This shift not only increased food production but also fostered social complexity and permanent settlements.
• Evaluate the impact of natural resource distribution on economic development and cultural practices in East Asia up to 1200.
  • The distribution of natural resources in East Asia profoundly impacted economic development and cultural practices. Regions abundant in fertile land facilitated agricultural surpluses that supported population growth and urbanization. Meanwhile, areas rich in minerals fueled trade networks and technological advancements. Cultural practices also evolved around these resources; for example, rice cultivation became integral to social rituals and community identity. Thus, natural resource distribution not only shaped economies but also influenced societal values and traditions throughout East Asia.

Related terms

Renewable resources: Natural resources that can be replenished naturally over time, such as forests, water, and solar energy.

Non-renewable resources: Natural resources that are finite and cannot be replaced once they are consumed, such as fossil fuels and minerals.

Resource management: The practice of managing natural resources in a sustainable way to ensure their availability for future generations.