TOPIC INFO (UGC NET)
TOPIC INFO – UGC NET (Geography)
SUB-TOPIC INFO – Geography of Economic Activities & Regional Development (UNIT 6)
CONTENT TYPE – Detailed Notes
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1. Introduction
2. Types of Natural Resources
3. Conservation of Natural Resources
4. Classification of Natural Resources
5. Natural Resources in India
6. Natural Resources Management
6.1. Meaning and Need for Resource Management
6.2. Dynamics of Resource Management
6.3. Management of Forests
6.4. Promote Non-conventional and Renewable Energy Sources
6.5. Management of Soil Resources
6.6. The Management of Water Resources
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Natural Resources & Resource Management
UGC NET GEOGRAPHY
Geography of Economic Activities & Regional Development (UNIT 6)
Introduction
Natural resources can be defined as resources that exist independent of human actions. These are resources found in the natural environment and developed without human intervention. Common examples include air, sunlight, water, soil, stone, plants, animals, and fossil fuels.
Natural resources are naturally occurring materials that are useful to humans or may become useful under certain technological, economic, or social conditions. They include supplies drawn from the earth, such as food, building materials, clothing materials, fertilizers, metals, water, and geothermal power. For a long time, the study of natural resources remained within the domain of the natural sciences.
Types of Natural Resources
Based on availability, natural resources are classified into two types:
- Renewable Resources: Renewable resources are those available in infinite quantity and can be used repeatedly. Examples include forests, wind, and water. These resources are reproducible and include natural vegetation, wildlife, soil, water, and wind energy. Renewable resources are regenerated or replenished by natural processes over a specific period of time.
- Non-Renewable Resources: Non-renewable resources are limited in availability and may be exhausted in the future. Examples include fossil fuels and minerals. These resources cannot be replaced once used. Resources derived from minerals and fossils fall into this category. Nature provides a limited supply of these resources, and continuous exploitation leads to depletion. Energy resources such as petrol and diesel are typical examples of non-renewable resources.
| Renewable Resources | Non-Renewable Resources |
|---|---|
| Can be renewed naturally | Cannot be renewed once completely consumed |
| Available in infinite or continuous supply | Available in limited quantity |
| Sustainable in nature | Exhaustible in nature |
| Generally environment-friendly | Less environment-friendly |
| Usually low operating cost in the long run | Often high cost due to extraction and processing |
| Replenish quickly | Replenish very slowly or not at all |
| Examples: solar energy, wind energy, water | Examples: coal, petroleum, natural gas |
The five most important natural resources are:
Air – Clean air is essential for the survival of plants, animals, and humans. Measures to reduce air pollution are necessary to protect this resource.
Water – About 70% of the Earth’s surface is covered with water, but only 2% is freshwater. Hence, there is a need for education, regulation, and conservation of water resources.
Soil – Soil is composed of various particles and nutrients and plays a vital role in plant growth and agriculture.
Iron – Iron, derived from silica-rich minerals, is used in the construction of weapons, transportation systems, and buildings, making it an important industrial resource.
Forests – With population growth, the demand for housing and construction increases. Forests provide clean air, support biodiversity, and help maintain ecological balance.