Natural Resources

Natural resources are useful materials that come from the Earth. Water, air, soil, minerals, and trees are all natural resources. People use natural resources every day. We drink water, breathe air, and use wood to build homes. Taking care of natural resources is important for the future.

Types of Natural Resources

Some natural resources are living things like trees and fish. Others are nonliving things like water, rocks, and minerals. Some resources are found underground, like oil and coal. Others are all around us, like sunlight and wind. Every product we use comes from natural resources in some way.

Using Resources Wisely

Some natural resources can run out if we use too much. Oil and coal take millions of years to form. Once they are gone, they are gone. Other resources like trees and fish can be replaced if we manage them carefully. Recycling and conserving help us use resources wisely.

Fun Facts

• It takes about one million years for nature to make one inch of topsoil.
• About 97 percent of Earth's water is salty ocean water that we cannot drink.
• A single tree can provide enough oxygen for two people for a whole year.

Did You Know?

Your smartphone contains over 30 different natural resources, including gold, silver, copper, and rare earth minerals mined from the ground!