Difference Between Renewable and Non-Renewable Resources
The following points highlight the difference between Renewable and Non-Renewable resources:
Characteristics |
Renewable Resources |
Non-Renewable Resources |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Natural resources that can be replenished in a human timescale. | Natural resources that cannot be replenished in a human timescale |
| Formation | Formed through natural processes, such as the Sun’s energy and wind, that can be replenished quickly | Formed through slow geological processes, such as the fossilization of plants and animals, that cannot be duplicated in a human timescale |
| Examples | Solar Energy, Wind Energy, Hydro Energy, Geothermal Energy, Bioenergy | Coal, Oil, Natural gas, Iron, Copper, Uranium |
| Supply | Unlimited supply as long as the natural processes do not get disrupted | Limited Supply, Cannot be Replenished |
| Environmental Impacts | Generally low, as long as they are managed sustainably | Can be significant, including Air Pollution and Water Pollution, Greenhouse gas emissions, Deforestation, and Soil erosion. |
| Energy Intensity | Low, as they are formed through natural processes | High, as significant energy is required to extract and process them |
| Costs | Very expensive | Cheap as compared to renewable resources but cost can increase over time if the resources become scarce |
| Economic Significance | Their demand is increasing with time | Already a huge demand as non-renewable resources provide energy and raw materials |
| Long-term Sustainability | High | Low |
Difference Between Renewable And Non-Renewable Resources
The difference between Renewable and Non-Renewable resources is that the former can be replenished whereas the latter cannot. Renewable and Non-Renewable sources are the subtypes of Natural Resources. Natural resources are those that were formed in nature millions of years ago. Some resources of energy, for example, Sunlight existed even before the Earth was formed. Based on availability, natural resources are classified as renewable or non-renewable. Renewable sources can be renewed even after continuous utilization. Non-renewable cannot be renewed after continuous utilization.
Table of Content
- Difference Between Renewable and Non-Renewable Resources
- What are Renewable Resources?
- What are Non-Renewable Resources?
- FAQs on Renewable and Non-Renewable Resources