Environmental management deals with the structure, function, quality and maintenance of the environment, including conservation of its living and non-living components. Expanding population and technological advancement have increased the demand for resources, so conservation contributes to the social and economic development of the country.
1. Natural Resources and Conservation
| Feature | Renewable | Non-Renewable |
|---|---|---|
| Nature | Renewed along with their exploitation; maintained by natural recycling or proper management | Cannot be recycled; exhausted by unlimited and continuous use; not easily replaced |
| Examples | Forests, crops, wildlife, groundwater, wind and solar energy | Mineral ores, coal, petroleum |
- Resources are conserved for their biological, economic and recreational values; excess and unplanned use leads to imbalance in the environment.
- Proper utilization and management of nature and its resources is termed conservation.
- To sustain resources: use energy efficiently, avoid wastage of water, avoid plastics and other non-biodegradable materials.