Solutions-NCERT-Class-8-Social Science-Chapter-1-Natural Resources and Their Use-CBSE

Categories of Natural Resources :

Natural resources are elements found in nature that humans use for survival and development. They are classified based on use and renewability:

Based on Use:

1. Essential Resources – Crucial for life
   Examples: Air, water, soil
2. Material Resources – Used to make products
   Examples: Wood, coal, metals
3. Energy Resources – Used to generate power
   Examples: Solar energy, wind energy, fossil fuels

Based on Renewability:

1. Renewable Resources – Can regenerate naturally over time
   Examples: Timber, water, solar energy
2. Non-Renewable Resources – Finite and take millions of years to form
   Examples: Coal, petroleum, minerals

The way natural resources are spread across the globe influences many key areas of human life:

(i) Human Settlements :

• People tend to settle near areas rich in water, fertile soil, or minerals.
• Urbanization and population density often increase in resource-rich regions.

(ii) Economic Growth and Industry :

• Regions with abundant resources attract industries and investments.
• This leads to job creation, improved infrastructure, and higher living standards.

(iii) Trade and International Relations :

• Countries with valuable resources engage in global trade.
• Resource-rich nations may form strategic alliances or face geopolitical tensions.

(iv) Conflicts and Inequality :

• Uneven distribution can cause disputes over access to water, oil, or minerals.
• It may lead to regional or international conflicts and social unrest.

(v) Infrastructure and Development :

• Resource availability influences the development of roads, power plants, and cities.
• Some regions advance faster due to easier access to key resources.

(vi) Quality of Life :

• Resource-rich areas often enjoy better healthcare, education, and services.
• Resource-poor regions may struggle with poverty and underdevelopment.

Over-exploitation of natural resources can lead to serious environmental, economic, and social consequences:

(i) Resource Depletion :

• Renewable resources like water and soil may not regenerate fast enough.
• Non-renewable resources like coal and petroleum may be exhausted permanently.

(ii) Ecosystem Damage :

• Loss of biodiversity due to habitat destruction.

 (iii) Shortages and Scarcity :

• Water scarcity, soil degradation, and deforestation can affect agriculture and daily life.
• Future generations may face limited access to essential resources.

(iv) Impact on Livelihoods :

• Communities dependent on forests, fisheries, or agriculture may suffer economically.
• Migration and unemployment can rise in affected areas.

(v) Climate Change and Pollution  :

• Excessive fossil fuel use increases greenhouse gas emissions.
• Pollution of air, water, and soil harms health and the environment.

(vi) Conflicts and Inequality :

• Competition over remaining resources can lead to local and global conflicts.

(i) Human activities such as deforestation, pollution of rivers, over-extraction of groundwater, and excessive use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides disturb the natural balance. These actions damage ecosystems, degrade soil, contaminate water, and reduce biodiversity.

(ii) To restore Nature’s cycle, several interventions can be adopted:

• Planting native trees to rebuild forests and support wildlife.
• Rainwater harvesting and sustainable water use to conserve groundwater.
• Proper waste treatment before disposal to reduce pollution.
• Organic farming to avoid harmful chemicals and protect soil health.

These measures help regenerate natural systems and promote long-term environmental sustainability.

Renewable Energy in Ahmedabad: Status and Future Directions

Ahmedabad’s primary renewable energy resources include solar energy, wind energy, and biomass.

• Among these, solar energy has seen the most growth, driven by government incentives and initiatives like rooftop solar programs. However, adoption is constrained by high installation costs, limited space, and reduced efficiency due to pollution and overcrowding.
• Wind energy remains underdeveloped, largely due to Ahmedabad’s flat terrain, which is unsuitable for large-scale wind farms.
• Meanwhile, biomass energy—despite its potential—remains largely untapped because of inefficient waste management systems.

To meet rising energy demands and counter the effects of urbanisation, Ahmedabad has launched several initiatives:

• Rooftop solar panel schemes
• A proposed 1,100 MW solar power plant
• A 100 MW wind power project

Despite these efforts, challenges persist. To accelerate progress, Ahmedabad needs:

• Stronger policies to promote solar adoption and reduce costs
• Efficient waste-to-energy systems to harness biomass potential
• Urban planning that integrates renewable energy infrastructure

(i) Non-renewable resources that we use daily, either directly or indirectly, such as:

• Coal – for electricity generation
• Petroleum – for transportation fuels and plastics
• Natural Gas – for heating and power
• Metals like iron and copper – for construction, electronics, and manufacturing

These resources are finite and their extraction and use contribute to environmental degradation.

(ii) To ensure a sustainable future, we must transition to renewable alternatives, including:

• Solar energy
• Wind energy
• Hydropower
• Biofuels
• Sustainably managed timber

(iii) Key Steps for a Successful Transition:

• Increase use of clean energy (solar, wind, hydropower)
• Improve energy efficiency in homes and industries
• Promote electric vehicles and public transport
• Raise awareness and support eco-friendly policies

(i) The map shows that minerals are unevenly distributed across India.

Major Mineral Regions:

• Coal: Found mainly in eastern and central India — Jharia, Raniganj, Korba — and southern areas like Neyveli and Singareni.
• Iron Ore: Abundant in Bailadila (Chhattisgarh), Mayurbhanj (Odisha), and parts of southern India.
• Bauxite: Located in Katni (Madhya Pradesh) and Koraput (Odisha).
• Petroleum & Natural Gas: Found along the western coast (Mumbai High, Ankleshwar) and northeast (Digboi, Assam).

This uneven distribution reflects India’s varied geology, where specific regions are rich in particular minerals.

(ii) Resources are available in my region :

In my region, Jharkhand, several important minerals are found. Jharkhand is one of India’s most mineral-rich states, especially in the eastern and central zones.

Key Minerals:

• Coal: Major coalfields in Jharia, Bokaro, Dhanbad.
• Iron Ore: Found in Singhbhum district.
• Other Minerals: Includes bauxite, copper, mica, and uranium.

These resources support local industries and contribute significantly to Jharkhand’s economy.

• Coal and iron ore are two important natural resources found in different parts of India.
• Coal is mainly found in Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and West Bengal, while iron ore is mostly found in Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, and Goa.

• Their distribution is uneven, with large deposits located in the eastern and southern regions.
• This has led to the growth of mining and related industries in these areas.
• Coal is used mainly for electricity generation and in industries, while iron ore is used to make steel, supporting construction and manufacturing activities.

The extraction of natural resources provides economic benefits such as industrial growth and employment. However, it often causes displacement of communities, loss of cultural heritage, and environmental degradation. Over time, over-extraction leads to resource depletion, ecosystem damage, and sustainability challenges for future generations.

To use nature’s resources responsibly, the following steps are essential:

• Adopt sustainable extraction methods
• Prioritise renewable energy sources
• Implement effective resource management
• Support policies for conservation and protection of local communities
• Promote a circular economy through reuse and recycling
• Educate future generations on environmental preservation

These measures help balance development with ecological protection and ensure long-term sustainability.

International Conflict Over Natural Resources: Iraq–Kuwait Oil Dispute

Background:

• Kuwait and Iraq share borders and access to rich oil reserves.
• Iraq accused Kuwait of overproducing oil, which lowered global prices and hurt Iraq’s economy.
• Iraq also claimed Kuwait was illegally extracting oil from the Rumaila oil field that straddles their border.

Conflict:

• In August 1990, Iraq invaded Kuwait, citing economic sabotage and territorial claims.
• The invasion led to the Gulf War, with a U.S.-led coalition intervening to liberate Kuwait.
• The war had massive environmental consequences, including oil well fires and marine pollution.

Significance:

• This conflict shows how control over oil can trigger military aggression.
• It highlights the role of resource scarcity, economic dependency, and geopolitical tensions in international disputes.

To use natural resources wisely, we need:

• Skilled people for proper management
• Good governance to prevent misuse
• Planning to avoid overdependence
• Infrastructure like roads and electricity
• Modern technology for safe extraction
• Environmental care and respect for communities
• Market access to ensure fair trade and development

These steps help turn natural wealth into sustainable growth.

• Everything we use—clothes, buildings, technology, and energy—originates from nature.
• Items like plastic buttons come from fossil fuels, fabrics from plants and animals, and construction materials from timber, stone, and metals.
• Even energy sources like coal, wind, and sunlight are natural.
• This highlights the need to use natural resources wisely and sustainably to protect them for future generations.

Natural resources can be classified in several ways:

(i) By Origin:

• Biotic: From living things (e.g., plants, animals)
• Abiotic: From non-living things (e.g., water, air, minerals)

(ii) By Renewability:

• Renewable: Sunlight, wind, water
• Non-renewable: Coal, petroleum, natural gas

(iii) By Location:

• Some resources like coal and oil are found in specific regions
• Others like sunlight and wind are available almost everywhere

(iv) By Accessibility:

• Surface minerals are easy to extract
• Deep-sea oil requires advanced technology

(v) By Cultural Importance:

• Some resources, like sacred rivers and forests, hold religious or cultural value

Yes, many traditional practices show respect for Nature as sacred.

Cultural and Religious Significance of Natural Resources :

Sacred Groves in India

• Protected forest areas where cutting trees or harming wildlife is prohibited
• Believed to be the dwelling places of gods or spirits
• Found in states like Maharashtra, Kerala, and Himachal Pradesh

Holy Rivers

• Rivers like the Ganga are worshipped and considered purifiers of sins
• Rituals and festivals (e.g., Ganga Dussehra, Kumbh Mela) reflect reverence

Sacred Trees

• Trees like Peepal and Banyan are not cut due to religious beliefs
• Often found near temples and worshipped during rituals

Global Indigenous Practices

• Native Americans and Aboriginal Australians honor nature through rituals
• Beliefs include spirits residing in landforms, animals, and plants
• Practices promote conservation and sustainable use

Environmental Impact

• These traditions foster respect for biodiversity
• Encourage community-based conservation and sustainable resource use

Yes, there are several traditional practices that help keep the ecosystem in balance.

Traditional Practices for Environmental Protection in India :

Sustainable Farming Techniques

• Crop Rotation: Alternating crops to maintain soil fertility and reduce pests
• Mixed Cropping: Growing multiple crops together to minimize risk and improve yield naturally

Water Conservation Methods

• Stepwells and Community Ponds: Ancient rainwater harvesting systems that recharge groundwater
• Common in arid regions like Rajasthan and Gujarat

Jhum Cultivation (Shifting Agriculture)

• Practised in the Northeast
• Land is cultivated and then left fallow to allow forest and soil regeneration
• Promotes biodiversity and prevents overexploitation

Tribal Resource Management

• Seasonal rules for hunting, fishing, and gathering
• Only necessary resources are taken, allowing nature to replenish
• Reflects deep ecological wisdom and respect for nature

Role of Traditional Knowledge

• Passed down through generations
• Emphasizes balance with nature, low environmental impact, and community-based conservation

A renewable resource can turn non-renewable if it is consumed faster than it regenerates, such as overfishing, deforestation, and excessive groundwater extraction. For example, groundwater becomes depleted when withdrawn faster than it is naturally recharged.

To prevent this, we must:

• Adopt sustainable management practices
• Use controlled water harvesting and reduce waste
• Promote reforestation and water conservation technologies
• Encourage efficient resource use in agriculture and other sectors

These steps help protect renewable resources for future generations.

(i) Food & Resources (Provisioning Services) :

• Forests provide timber, fruits, and medicinal plants.
• Example: Sundarbans mangroves supply fish and honey to local communities.

(ii) Climate & Disaster Control (Regulating Services) :

• Wetlands absorb excess rainwater, preventing floods.
• Example: The East Kolkata Wetlands naturally treat city sewage and reduce flood risks.

(iii) Soil & Pollination (Supporting Services) :

• Earthworms improve soil fertility, helping crops grow.
• Example: Honeybees pollinate mustard crops in India, increasing yield.

(iv) Recreation & Spiritual Value (Cultural Services) :

• Natural landscapes attract tourism and provide peace.
• Example: Himalayan national parks like Valley of Flowers attract trekkers and pilgrims.

(v) Biodiversity Support (Habitat Services) :

• Coral reefs provide breeding grounds for fish.
• Example: Gulf of Mannar (Tamil Nadu) coral ecosystem supports fisheries that feed local communities.

Renewable resources are natural materials that regenerate over time, such as sunlight, wind, water, and wood. These resources are sustainable when used responsibly, as they replenish naturally.

Non-renewable resources, like fossil fuels and minerals, are finite and cannot be restored within a human timescale. Once depleted, they are gone for generations.

Importance of Managing Renewable Resources :

To ensure renewable resources remain available for future generations, they must be managed with care. This includes:

• Using clean energy sources like solar and wind power
• Minimizing waste and pollution
• Adopting sustainable practices, such as responsible forestry and water conservation

Examples of Sustainable Use :

1. Solar-powered street lighting reduces dependence on fossil fuels and lowers carbon emissions.
2. Replanting trees after timber harvests ensures forest regeneration and maintains biodiversity.

In many Indian homes and neighbourhoods, cultural traditions play a vital role in conserving natural resources:

Tree Conservation

• Sacred trees like peepal and banyan are revered and never cut down, encouraging long-term preservation of greenery.

Protection of Sacred Groves

• Forest patches known as sacred groves are protected due to their spiritual importance, helping conserve biodiversity and native species.

Eco-Friendly Festival Practices

• Traditional festivals often use natural materials such as:
• Banana leaves for serving food
• Clay for crafting idols
• Natural dyes for decorations
  These practices reduce plastic and chemical waste.

Water Conservation through Rituals

• Ponds, wells, and other water bodies are cleaned and worshipped during religious events, promoting respect and care for water resources.

Minimalism through Fasting and Simple Living

• Religious observances encourage fasting and modest lifestyles, which help reduce overconsumption and support sustainable living.

• Producing goods sustainably involves using renewable resources and eco-friendly materials.
• Energy efficiency helps reduce carbon footprints from production and transport.
• Recycling and reusing materials minimize waste.
• Ethical sourcing ensures responsible material use, while designing durable products reduces frequent replacements.
• Supporting local communities and reducing transport emissions promote both environmental and social sustainability.