1. Natural resources are elements found in the environment that can be utilized for various purposes, such as water, sunlight, and timber.
2. Non-renewable resources are finite and cannot be replenished over time, including fossil fuels like oil, natural gas, and coal.

Natural resources are an integral part of our planet's ecosystem, providing essential materials and energy sources for various human activities. These resources can be categorized into two broad types: natural and non-renewable resources. Natural resources refer to materials that are sourced directly from nature and are replenished naturally over time, while non-renewable resources are finite and take millions of years to form, making them scarce and often irreversible once depleted. Let's explore some examples of both natural and non-renewable resources.

Natural resources cover a wide range of materials, from energy sources to raw materials for industrial processes. One of the most well-known natural resources is freshwater, which is vital for all forms of life. Most of the planet's freshwater is in the form of glaciers and ice caps, while a smaller portion is found in rivers, lakes, and underground aquifers. However, due to population growth, climate change, and unsustainable water management practices, the availability of freshwater is becoming increasingly limited, leading to water scarcity in many regions.

Another example of a natural resource is timber. Trees provide us with timber, which is used for construction, furniture, paper production, and various other applications. However, deforestation poses a significant threat to this resource, as it destroys forests at an alarming rate. Unsustainable logging practices and the conversion of forests into agricultural land contribute to the loss of tree cover, which disrupts ecosystems, increases greenhouse gas emissions, and threatens biodiversity.

Minerals and ores are also natural resources that play a crucial role in industrial processes. One prominent example is iron ore, which is the primary raw material for steel production. Iron ore deposits are found in various parts of the world and are extracted through mining operations. However, as these deposits are finite, there is growing concern about their depletion and the need to find sustainable alternatives for steel production.

Now let's turn our attention to non-renewable resources. These resources are formed over geological time scales and are consumed much faster than they can regenerate. Fossil fuels are perhaps the most well-known examples of non-renewable resources. They include coal, oil, and natural gas, which have been the primary sources of energy for human activities for centuries. Fossil fuels are formed from the remains of prehistoric plants and animals that were buried and subjected to intense heat and pressure over millions of years. However, their extraction and combustion release large amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change and air pollution.

Uranium, used in nuclear power plants, is another non-renewable resource. Although nuclear power is considered a low-carbon energy source, the supply of uranium is limited and subject to geopolitical challenges. Furthermore, nuclear energy presents safety concerns and issues related to the disposal of radioactive waste, making it controversial and raising questions about its long-term sustainability.

Rare earth elements (REEs) are another critical set of non-renewable resources. These elements, such as neodymium and dysprosium, are essential for the production of advanced technologies, including renewable energy systems, electric vehicles, and electronics. However, the mining and extraction of REEs often have severe environmental impacts and can result in the displacement of local communities.

In conclusion, natural resources play a critical role in our daily lives and the global economy. Examples of natural resources include freshwater, timber, and minerals, which are crucial for various human activities. Non-renewable resources, on the other hand, are finite and take millions of years to form. Fossil fuels, uranium, and rare earth elements are some examples of non-renewable resources. It is essential for society to transition to sustainable practices, such as conserving water, promoting responsible logging, and seeking renewable energy alternatives, to ensure the long-term availability and preservation of these resources for future generations.