Over the many millennia that the human race has inhabited our planet, a use has been found for almost everything that is to be found on it. However, since the Industrial Revolution, many of the resources that we have come to rely on are being depleted, some at an alarming rate. Misuse of others, such as fossil fuels, is causing such damage to the environment that measures are being taken at an international level to restrict their use Introducing Natural Resources explains how the natural resources of the Earth originated, by outlining the astronomical and geological evolution of the planet in the early period of its existence. The genesis, mode of occurrence, and abundance of the various non-renewable mineral resources are described, together with the methods of extraction, extent of reserves, and any environmental problems. The use of renewable resources, such as solar energy, air, and water, are then discussed, together with plant and animal life, which are renewable resources only if properly managed. The book concludes with a summary of future issues in resource management. Copiously illustrated, this book is intended for those whose interest in natural resources has been stimulated, perhaps by media coverage of declining resources or environmental pollution, and who want to better understand the issues involved. Technical terms are kept to a minimum and are explained in a glossary. Over the many millennia that the human race has inhabited the planet, a practical use has been found for almost every natural resource that is here. However, since the Industrial Revolution, many of the resources that we have come to rely on are being depleted, some at an alarming rate. The misuse of others, such as fossil fuels, is causing such damage to the environment that measures are being taken at an international level to restrict their use. This book explains how the natural resources of the Earth originated, by outlining the astronomical and geological evolution of the planet in the early period of its existence -- Source other than Library of Congress Over the many millennia that the human race has inhabited the planet, a practical use has been found for almost every natural resource that is here. However, since the Industrial Revolution, many of the resources that we have come to rely on are being depleted, some at an alarming rate. The misuse of others, such as fossil fuels, is causing such damage to the environment that measures are being taken at an international level to restrict their use. This book explains how the natural resources of the Earth originated, by outlining the astronomical and geological evolution of the planet in the early period of its existence -- cover excerpts Front cover Title page Contents List of illustrations Preface 1_Introduction 2_Origin and early history of the Earth 3_Redistribution and concentration of mineral resources 4_Types of ore deposit 5_Metallic mineral resources – I 6_Metallic mineral resouces II 7_Resources of non-metallic elements 8_Rocks as an economic resource 9_Non-renewable energy resources 10_Atmosphere, ocean and biosphere 11_Renewable energy resources 12_Protecting the Planet Glossary Appendix Further Reading Back cover An illustrated introduction to the science surrounding the Earth’s resources, both renewable and non-renewable.
