Nature provides raw materials, but it’s human ingenuity and labour, often organised by various institutions, that turn these raw materials into usable ‘resources’.

Technology plays a pivotal role in this transformation. For example, crude oil existed for millions of years before the technology to refine it was developed.

Classification Of Resources

1.Biotic And Abiotic: While nature provides both living (biotic) and non-living (abiotic) raw materials, it is technology that turns these into resources such as pharmaceuticals or fossil fuels.

2.Renewable And Non-Renewable: Not all resources are equal in their renewability. Technology and human practices can either support sustainability or lead to depletion.

3.Ownership: Resources can be controlled by individuals, communities, or nations. This ownership plays a key role in equitable (or inequitable) distribution and usage.