Natural Resources Around the World: Use and Sustainability Grade 7

Types of Natural Resources

Renewable Resources Definition Examples Explanation Resources that can replace themselves even if they have been used, as long as they are not overused Examples Trees in forests Crops that are produced by agriculture Natural fish stocks Explanation These resources are capable of regrowing or renewing themselves over a period of time.

Non-Renewable Resources Definition Resources that are gone once they are used Examples Minerals such as gold, iron, and nickel Fossil fuels such as coal and petroleum Explanation These resources can be created only under quite specific conditions.

Flow Resources Definition Examples Explanation Resources that are replaced by natural actions whether humans use them or not Examples Fresh water flowing through streams and rivers because of precipitation Ocean currents Wind Explanation These resources exist because of natural systems and natural processes.

Activity Copy the chart on p. 201—study the chart for 5 minutes and see if you are able to create a similar chart (in your own words) without looking at the chart P. 202 #2

Supplying Our Demands (p. 203-204) Key Points Many natural resources must be changed before we can use them—processes (i.e. sawing, purifying, cleaning, refining) Processes may require many steps (i.e. jeans – from picking cotton to shipping and manufacturing) We use technology to modify resources The processes used to change resources can affect the natural environment

Factors Affecting the Use of Resources (p. 205-208) Growing Consumption – as our population and desire for more things increases we will eventually run out of non- renewable resources. Making Consumption More Fair – The rich use more natural resources since they are able to afford them. Now poorer countries want to enjoy resources as well—they will be pressured to use the planet’s resources to supply them with products. Concerns About Natural Resources – we are harming our physical environment. Activity p. 207 #2

Making Resources Last (p. 208-210) Key Points: Work to sustain them Learn about how they are used to provide us with things we need and want Make sure our way of life doesn’t use up non-renewable resources and does not waste renewable resources Practice the 3 Rs Read “Go Geo-Green” p. 209 Activity p. 210 #2-3

Traditional Technology Read p. 212-215 Some people in the world still use traditional technology. They have very little impact on the natural environment and natural resources. Maintaining a traditional society is difficult as desire for natural resources by outside societies has interfered with their way of life and their ability to maintain it. Activity p. 215 #1-3

Test Next Class

Non-Renewable Resources

Minerals (p. 218-221 Mineral – naturally occurring substance found in Earth’s rocks that can be used to meet human needs. Mineral Categories: metallic, non-metallic, structural, fossil fuels Activities Copy the definition of minerals in your notebook. Copy the chart on p. 220 (figure 11.2) into your notebook P. 221 #1, 2, 4