Renewable resources are natural resources that can be replenished over time through natural processes, while non-renewable resources are finite and cannot be replaced once depleted.
Renewable Resources:
- Solar energy
- Wind energy
- Hydro energy
- Geothermal energy
- Biomass
- Forests
- Fisheries
- Freshwater
Characteristics:
- Sustainable
- Replenished naturally
- Abundant
- Low environmental impact
Non-Renewable Resources:
- Fossil fuels (coal, oil, gas)
- Nuclear energy
- Minerals (metals, ores)
- Landfill gas
Characteristics:
- Finite
- Non-replenishable
- Scarce
- High environmental impact
Renewable resources are generally sustainable and have a lower environmental impact, while non-renewable resources are finite and contribute significantly to environmental degradation.