Exploitation of natural resources

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Some exploitation of natural resources is an essential condition of the human existence. This refers primarily to food production and necessities. However, the exploitation of nature is often done in an unsustainable way, which is causing increasing concern, as the depletion of natural resources from economic growth and population growth ultimately threatens human existence.

[edit] Why resources are under pressure

• Increase in sophistication of technology enabling natural resources to be extracted quickly and efficiently. For Example: In the past, it could take long hours just to cut down one tree only using saws. Due to increased technology, it takes a machine only a matter of minutes to cut down a tree.

• A rapidly increasing population. This leads to greater demand for natural resources.

• Materialistic societies (industrially based) that promote mass consumption and unnecessary use of these resources. Examples are gold, diamonds etc.

[edit] See also

• Sustainability
• List of environmental issues
• Consumerism
• Over-consumption