Earth's Resources and Human Impact
Using Earth wisely
Natural resources
Natural resources are materials from Earth that people use, such as water, wood, minerals, soil, sunlight, and fossil fuels. Some resources are renewable, meaning they can be replaced naturally in a short time. Others are nonrenewable and take very long to form.
Renewable vs. nonrenewable
Renewable resources
- Replaced naturally in a short time
- Examples: sunlight, wind, many plants
Nonrenewable resources
- Form very slowly or are limited
- Examples: coal, oil, natural gas, many minerals
Which is a renewable resource?
Sunlight is continually available from the Sun.
Correct answer: Sunlight
Pollution and waste
Pollution is harmful material or energy added to air, water, or land. Examples include smoke, plastics, and chemicals. Reducing waste, reusing items, and recycling materials can help protect the environment.
Small actions matter
Turning off unused lights, saving water, and recycling can reduce resource use over time.
What is recycling?
Recycling turns used materials into new products or raw materials.
Correct answer: Processing used materials so they can be used again
Environmental terms
What is one way people can conserve resources?
Conservation means using resources carefully.
Correct answer: Use less water, reuse items, or recycle.
What is pollution?
Pollution can affect air, water, and land.
Correct answer: Harmful material or energy added to the environment.