Resources Class 8 SST, PDF Notes
Resources are the things that make our lives easier and more comfortable. They are the base of our survival and development. In Geography, learning about resources helps us understand how humans use nature and technology to improve life.
What is a Resource?
A resource is anything that is useful to humans. It can be a thing, an idea, or even a person’s skill. For example, water, soil, books, machines, and teachers are all resources. The main point is that something becomes a resource only when it is useful to us.
What Makes Something a Resource?
Usefulness is called utility. If something helps us in any way, it becomes a resource. For example, a stone is not a resource unless we use it for a purpose like building or decoration.
Resources also have economic value. Some are costly like gold, while others like air are free but still important. The value of a resource can change with time and demand.
Types of Resources
Resources are of three main types:
- Natural Resources: These come from nature. Examples are water, minerals, forests, air, and sunlight.
- Human-made Resources: These are made by humans using natural materials and technology. Examples include buildings, machines, and vehicles.
- Human Resources: People themselves are resources when they use their skills and knowledge. Teachers, doctors, and engineers are examples of human resources.
Classification of Natural Resources
Natural resources are further divided as follows:
| Classification of Natural Resources | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Basis of Classification | Types of Resources | Explanation | Examples |
| Based on Development and Use | Actual Resources | Used and their quantity are known | Coal, Water |
| Potential Resources | Found but not yet used due to a lack of technology | Solar power in deserts, Wind energy | |
| Based on Origin | Biotic | Living or once-living things | Plants, Animals |
| Abiotic | Non-living things | Rocks, Minerals, Water | |
| Based on Stock | Renewable Resources | Replenished naturally over time | Forests, Wind, Sunlight |
| Non-renewable Resources | Limited supply and takes a long time to form again | Coal, Petroleum | |
| Based on Distribution | Ubiquitous Resources | Found everywhere | Air, Sunlight |
| Localized Resources | Found only in specific areas | Petroleum, Red soil | |
Time and Technology in Resource Development
The value of resources changes with time and technology. Long ago, petroleum was useless. Today, it powers transport and industry. Similarly, wind and sunlight became useful after new technologies were invented.
Resource Conservation and Sustainable Development
Resources should be used wisely so that future generations also get them. This is called resource conservation. Sustainable development means using resources in a way that meets our needs without harming nature. Simple steps like saving water, planting trees, and recycling help in this goal.
Resources are essential for life and growth. They gain value through utility, time, and technology. It is our duty to use them carefully and protect them for the future.
