A natural resource is something that exists naturally, not because it was produced by human beings.

Some people think of natural resources as a gift to humanity.  They are used now in countless ways, and have been of benefit to people throughout history.

A River and Forest.  Photo Credit: ClickART Image Pak.

Natural resources are often limited, or non-renewable.  As a result, excessive use can result in the depletion of these resources, and could cause supplies to dry up.  For example, some environmentalists argue that present rates of fossil fuel use are unsustainable because fossil fuel resources will run out in coming years.

A "fund resource" is one that can be exhausted through human consumption.  Fossil fuels fit this category, as do many other resources.  Metals, for example, can be depleted if they are not recycled and used again.

Many natural resources can renew themselves over time.  However, there are limitations to this ability.

First, if a resource is completely depleted, it may not be able to replenish itself.  For example, forests that are chopped down or animals that are made extinct will not be able to return.

Second, human consumption may occur at a rate faster than that at which the natural resource can renew itself.  For example, fossil fuel consumption is far outpacing the rate at which fossil fuel supplies can be replenished.

Natural resources are now being used in increasing quantities.  Higher living standards and industrialization are increasing the use of natural resources in industry, and population growth is also causing demand for resources to rise. 

Today, the United States accounts for 30% of the world's natural resource consumption, though it has just 5% of the world's population.  Many other industrialized nations are also consuming great quantities of natural resources, often obtaining them from less developed countries.