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Resource depletion is the consumption of a resource faster than it can be replenished. Natural resources are commonly divided between renewable resources and non-renewable resources. The use of either of these forms of resources beyond their rate of replacement is considered to be resource depletion. [1]
Environmental degradation is the deterioration of the environment through depletion of resources such as quality of air, water and soil; the destruction of ecosystems; habitat destruction; the extinction of wildlife; and pollution. It is defined as any change or disturbance to the environment perceived to be deleterious or undesirable.
The exploitation of natural resources describes using natural resources, often non-renewable or limited, for economic growth [1] or development. [2] Environmental degradation , human insecurity, and social conflict frequently accompany natural resource exploitation.
Depletion of natural resources is associated with social inequity. Considering most biodiversity are located in developing countries, [16] depletion of this resource could result in losses of ecosystem services for these countries. [17] Some view this depletion as a major source of social unrest and conflicts in developing nations. [18]
The resource consumption rate of a nation does not usually correspond with the primary resource availability, this is called resource curse. Unsustainable consumption by the steadily growing human population may lead to resource depletion and a shrinking of the earth's carrying capacity. [1]
A McKelvey diagram or McKelvey box is a visual representation used to describe a natural resource such as a mineral or fossil fuel, based on the geologic certainty of its presence and its economic potential for recovery. The diagram is used to estimate the uncertainty and risk associated with availability of a natural resource.
Human activity is causing environmental degradation, which is the deterioration of the environment through depletion of resources such as air, water and soil; the destruction of ecosystems; habitat destruction; the extinction of wildlife; and pollution.
They state that the costs of resource depletion are becoming more evident. Climate change — a result of greenhouse gases being emitted — is the most obvious result and widespread effects. Other biophysical effects include: deforestation , species loss , soil erosion , or fisheries collapse.