Question:
What can make what is today a renewable resource nonrenewable tomorrow? Describe some actions that can prevent this from happening.
(Chapter 1, Class 8 Social Science, NCERT )
Answer.
Some natural resources, like forests, water, soil, and wildlife, are called renewable resources because nature can replace them over time.
But if we use them too fast, waste them, or damage nature, they may not get enough time to recover.
Then…
A renewable resource can become non-renewable.
What Makes Renewable Resources Become Non-Renewable?
The following are some reasons:
1. Over-Exploitation (Using Too Much, Too Fast)
When people use a resource faster than nature can replace it, it starts to run out.
Example:
Excess cutting of trees in Arunachal Pradesh and Jharkhand forests
Forests cannot regrow fast → They start disappearing
Result: Forest becomes like a non-renewable resource.
2. Pollution and Environmental Damage
If resources are polluted, they cannot be used again easily.
Example:
The Ganga and Yamuna rivers are polluted by industries and sewage.
Water becomes unsafe for drinking and farming
Though water is renewable, polluted water acts like a non-renewable resource.
3. Population Growth and Excess Demand
More population means more demand for resources.
Example:
Overuse of groundwater in Punjab and Haryana.
Tube wells pump water continuously.
The water level falls and cannot recharge quickly.
4. Climate Change
Changes in climate reduce natural regeneration.
Example:
Less rainfall → Rivers dry faster
Glaciers melting in the Himalayas
Renewable water sources may disappear.
5. Poor Resource Management
When resources are not used wisely, they are damaged permanently.
Example:
Overgrazing by cattle → Soil becomes barren
Land turns into desert (Desertification in Rajasthan)
How Can We Prevent Renewable Resources from Becoming Non-Renewable?
1. Sustainable Use of Resources
Use only what is needed.
Example:
Controlled tree cutting
Limited groundwater extraction
2. Conservation of Forests
Plant more trees and protect forests.
Example:
Van Mahotsav Campaign in India
Social forestry programs
3. Water Conservation
Save and reuse water.
Example:
Rainwater harvesting in cities like Chennai
Drip irrigation in farming
4. Reduce Pollution
Keep resources clean and usable.
Example:
Treat factory waste before releasing it into rivers.
5. Use Renewable Alternatives
Use solar and wind energy instead of fossil fuels.
Example:
Solar panels in Indian villages
6. Public Awareness and Education
Teach people to use resources wisely.
Example:
School awareness programs
Government campaigns
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