Natural Resources and Their Use

Class 8 Question Answer (In-Text)

The big Questions (page 1)

Question 1.
How do we categorise natural resources?
Answer:
Natural resources are elements found in
the environment that humans use for
various purposes. They can be
categorised based on their use and
renewability. By use, natural resources
are divided into essential resources like
air, water, and soil, which are crucial for
life; material resources like wood, coal,
and metals, used to create products; and
energy resources like solar, wind, and
fossil fuels, which are used for generating
electricity and powering industries. By
renewability, they are classified as
renewable resources, such as timber,
water, and solar energy, which can
regenerate over time and non-renewable
resources, like coal, petroleum, and
minerals, which are limited and take
millions of years to form, making them
hard to replace, once used.

Question 2.
What is the connection between the
distribution of natural resources and
different aspects of life?
Answer:
The distribution of natural resources
impacts various aspects of life, including
human settlements, trade, and
international relations. Areas rich in
resources tend to attract industries, which
fosters economic growth and creates job
opportunities. However, unequal
distribution can lead to conflicts over
access to resources, such as water or
minerals, both within countries and
between nations. It also shapes the
development of infrastructure and can
create disparities in quality of life, with
some regions benefiting more from their
resources than others.
Renewable energy solutions
Eco-friendly products

Question 3.
What are the implications of
unsustainable use/over exploitation of
natural resources?
Answer:
When natural resources are used
unsustainably or over-exploited, it can
lead to severe long-term consequences.
Resources may become depleted, and
ecosystems suffer damage, affecting
biodiversity and natural habitats. The
excessive use of renewable resources,
like water or soil, can prevent them from
regenerating, leading to shortages.
Similarly, overuse of non-renewable
resources, may exhaust them, leaving
fewer options for future generations. This
disruption not only harms the
environment but can also negatively
impact the livelihoods of communities
dependent on these resources. Over-
exploitation often contributes to broader
issues, such as climate change and
pollution, and can provoke conflicts over
the remaining resources.

Let’s Explore

Question 1.
Identify human actions in your
surroundings that result in Nature losing
her ability to restore and regenerate.
What types of interventions can be
undertaken to restore Nature’s cycle?
(Page 7)
Answer:
Human activities such as cutting down
trees faster than they can grow back,
polluting rivers with industrial and
domestic waste, over-extracting
groundwater, and excessive use of
chemical fertilisers and pesticides disturb
Nature’s ability to restore and regenerate
itself.

These actions disrupt natural cycles,

leading to soil degradation, water
contamination, and loss of biodiversity.
To help restore Nature’s balance, we can
take steps like planting native trees to
rebuild forests, practising sustainable
water management such as rainwater
harvesting, reducing pollution by properly
treating waste before disposal, and using
organic farming methods that avoid
harmful chemicals. These measures
support natural restoration and
regeneration, allowing ecosystems and
resources to recover over time.

Eco-friendly products
Question 2.
Take up a small research study to assess
the types of renewable resources in your
region; you may discuss with your
teacher the geographical area of your
study and sources to access information
that you may need. What has been the
change in their status over time? Make a
small report that identifies the reasons for
the change and what may be done. (Page
8)
Answer:
(Suggestive Answer) In my region, Delhi,
the primary renewable resources are
solar energy, wind energy, and biomass.
Solar energy has grown with government
incentives, but adoption is limited by high
costs and space constraints. Wind energy
is underdeveloped due to the city’s flat
terrain, and biomass remains untapped
due to inefficient waste management.
Delhi is working to increase its renewable
energy capacity through initiatives like
rooftop solar panels and projects such as
a 1,000 MW solar plant and a 111 MW
wind power plant.

The status of these resources has

changed due to urbanisation and rising
energy demand. While solar energy is
growing, pollution and overcrowding
reduce its efficiency. Wind energy has not
progressed, and biomass potential
remains unused. To improve, Delhi needs
stronger policies for solar adoption, better
waste-to-energy systems, and urban
planning focused on renewable energy.

Question 3.
What are the non-renetvable resources
that you use daily, directly or indirectly?
What are the possible renewable
substitutes? What are some of the steps
we can take to transition to renewables?
(Page 8)
Answer:
Non-renewable resources that we use
daily, either directly or indirectly, include
coal, petroleum, natural gas, and metals
like iron and copper. These are used for
electricity, transportation, heating, and
manufacturing many products. Possible
renewable substitutes include solar
energy, wind energy, hydropower,
biofuels, and sustainably managed
timber. To transition to renewable
resources, we need to increase the use of
clean energy sources, improve energy
efficiency, develop better energy storage,
promote electric vehicles and public
transport, and protect natural
ecosystems. Additionally, raising
awareness and supporting government
policies that encourage sustainable use of
resources are vital to ensure this
transition is successful.

Question 4.
Observe the map in Figure Notice the
uneven distribution of important minerals.
What types of resources are available in
your region? How are they distributed?
(Page 9)
Answer:
(Suggestive Answer) The map shows that
minerals are unevenly distributed across
India. Coal is mainly found in eastern and
central regions like Jharia, Raniganj, and
Korba, as well as in the south at Neyveli
and Singareni. Iron ore is abundant in
central, eastern, and southern parts,
including Bailadila and Mayurbhanj.
Bauxite deposits are mostly in central and
eastern India, such as Katni and Koraput
in southern Odisha. Petroleum and
natural gas fields are located along the
western coast near Mumbai High and
Ankleshwar, and in the northeast at
Digboi. This uneven distribution reflects
India’s varied geology, with certain
regions rich in specific minerals.

In my region, Jharkhand, several

important minerals are found. The state is
especially rich in coal, with major
coalfields located in Jharia, Bokaro, and
Dhanbad. Iron ore is another key
resource, mainly found in the Singhbhum
district. Jharkhand also has deposits of
bauxite, copper, mica, and uranium,
spread across different parts of the state.
These minerals are mostly located in the
eastern and central parts of Jharkhand,
making it one of India’s most resource-
rich areas. The distribution of these
resources supports many industries and
plays a vital role in the state’s economy.
Question 5.
Select any two natural resources. Gather
information about their availability across
different parts of India. Mark them on a
map. What do you observe about their
distribution? What are the types of
economic actimties connected with them?
(Page 10)

Img- 1
Answer:
Coal and iron ore are two important
natural resources found in different parts
of India. Coal is mainly found in
Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and
West Bengal, while iron ore is mostly
found in Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh,
Karnataka, and Goa. Their distribution is
uneven, with large deposits located in the
eastern and southern regions. This has
led to the growth of mining and related
industries in these areas. Coal is used
mainly for electricity generation and in
industries, while iron ore is used to make
steel, supporting construction and
manufacturing activities.

Question 6.
Discuss the implications of extracting the
natural resources in those parts for
current and future generations. Suggest
ways in which we can use Nature’s gifts in
responsible ways. (Page 10)
Answer:
The extraction of natural resources brings
economic benefits but often leads to the
displacement of communities, loss of
cultural heritage, and environmental
damage. Over time, it depletes resources,
harms ecosystems, and creates
sustainability challenges for future
generations.
To use Nature’s gifts responsibly, it is
essential to adopt sustainable extraction
methods, prioritise renewable energy,
and implement effective resource
management. Supporting policies that
promote conservation and respect local
communities’ rights is crucial.
Encouraging a circular economy, where
resources are reused and recycled, helps
reduce waste and ensures long-term
sustainability. Educating future
generations on the importance of
preserving natural resources is key to
safeguarding the Earth for the future.

Question 7.
Find out about such a conflict in the
international context? Discuss your
findings in the class. (Page 10)
Answer:
(Suggestive Answer) An international
example of a conflict over natural
resources is the ongoing tension between
Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sudan regarding the
Nile River. Ethiopia has constructed the
Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam
(GERD) to generate electricity, but Egypt
and Sudan, situated downstream, are
concerned that the dam could reduce
their access to essential water supplies,
with Egypt relying on the Nile for nearly
90% of its water. Despite numerous
rounds of negotiations, a permanent
solution has not been reached. This
situation highlights how shared natural
resources, such as rivers, can lead to
significant disputes between countries.

Question 8.
What do you think are the different inputs
required to enable the use of the natural
resources available in different
geographical areas? (Page 11)
Answer:
To make the best use of natural resources
in different geographical areas, several
key inputs are needed. These include
skilled people with the right knowledge to
manage and develop the resources
efficiently, good governance to ensure
fair use and prevent corruption, and
proper planning to avoid overdependence
on a single resource. Investment in
infrastructure such as roads, electricity,
and transport is essential, along with the
use of modern technology to extract and
process resources safely and effectively.
Environmental care and respect for local
communities are also important to ensure
sustainability. Finally, access to markets
allows countries to sell resources and
products at fair prices, helping to turn
natural wealth into long-term
development.

Think About It

Question 1.
Take a pause. Look at yourself and the
things around you. What is the origin of
each of them? At some point they all lead
to Nature; even the plastic button on your
shirt. (Page 3)
Answer:
Everything around us, from our clothes to
the technology we use, originates in
nature. Even a plastic button on our shirt
comes from fossil fuels, such as
petroleum and natural gas. Fabrics like
cotton and wool are from plants and
animals, while buildings are made of
timber stone, and metals mined from the
Earth. The energy we rely on, whether
coal, wind, or sunlight, also comes from
nature.
In short, everything we use connects back
to nature. This reminds us of the
importance of using natural resources
wisely and sustainably for future
generations.

Question 2.
What might be the different criteria we
can use to categorise natural resources?
(Page 4)
Answer:
Natural resources can be categorised in
many ways. They may come from living
things, called biotic resources, like plants
and animals, or from non-living things,
including water, air, and minerals. One
key way to divide them is into renewable
types like sunlight and wind, and non-
renewable ones like coal and oil. They can
also be classified by where they are
found. For example, coal and oil exist only
in certain places, while sunlight and wind
are available almost everywhere. Another
way to categorise them is by how easy
they are to access. Surface minerals are
easy to get, while oil deep under the
ocean requires special technology.
Finally, some hold cultural or religious
importance, such as sacred rivers or
forests.

Don’t miss Out

Question 1.
Do you know ofpractices that reflect this?
(Page 3)
Answer:
Yes, many traditional practices show
respect for Nature as sacred. In India,
sacred groves are protected forest areas
where cutting trees or harming wildlife is
not allowed, as they are believed to be
home to gods or spirits. Rivers like the
Ganga are worshipped and seen as holy.
Certain trees, such as the peepal and
banyan, are also considered sacred and
are not cut down. Indigenous groups in
other countries, like Native Americans
and Aboriginal Australians, hold similar
beliefs and perform rituals to honour
nature. These practices reflect care for
the environment and a deep respect for
natural resources.

Question 2.
Do you know of other traditional practices
that help the ecosystem to stay in
balance? (Page 6)
Answer:
Yes, there are several traditional
practices that help keep the ecosystem in
balance. In India, farmers have long used
crop
rotation and mixed cropping to keep the
soil healthy and reduce pests without
chemicals. In many villages, stepwells
and community ponds were built to store
rainwater and recharge the groundwater
naturally. In the Northeast, people
practise jhum cultivation (shifting
farming), where they leave the land to
rest for a few years after growing crops so
that the forest and soil can recover. Tribal
communities also follow seasonal rules for
hunting, fishing, and gathering, taking
only what they need and allowing nature
to renew itself. These practices are based
on traditional knowledge and help protect
the environment in a natural and
sustainable way.

Class 8 SST Chapter 1 Natural

Resources and Their Use Question
Answer (Exercise)
NCERT Questions and Activities (Page 19)

Question 1.
What can make what is today a
renewable resource non-renewable
tomorrow? Describe some actions that
can prevent this from happening.
Answer:
A renewable resource can become non-
renewable if its consumption rate
exceeds its natural regeneration rate,
such as overfishing, deforestation, or
excessive groundwater extraction. For
example, when water is taken from
underground reserves faster than it can
be naturally replenished, the resource is
depleted.

To prevent this, adopting sustainable

management practices is essential.
Controlled water harvesting, reducing
waste, and using resources efficiently are
key steps. Restoration efforts, such as
reforestation or implementing water
conservation technologies, can also play
a vital role in maintaining balance. By
prioritising responsible practices in areas
like agriculture and resource
management, the regeneration of these
resources can be safeguarded for future
generations.

Question 2.
Name five ecosystem functions that serve
humAnswer:
Answer:
Ecosystems provide several crucial
functions that directly support human life
and well-being. These include:

1. Pollination: Insects such as moths,

flies, and other pollinators help in
the reproduction of many crops and
plants, supporting food production.
2. Water Purification: Ecosystems like
wetlands and forests naturally filter
and clean water, ensuring access to
clean resources.
3. Climate Regulation: Ecosystems
absorb carbon dioxide and produce
oxygen, helping to regulate the
climate and maintain environmental
stability.
 4. 4. Soil Fertility: Processes like
decomposition and nutrient cycling
in ecosystems support soil
formation and fertility, which is
essential for agriculture.
5. Provision of Food: Ecosystems
provide diverse food sources,
including plants, animals, and fish,
which are vital for human nutrition
and survival.
Question 3.
What are renewable resources? How are
they different from non-renewable ones?
What can people do to ensure that
renewable resources continue to be
available for our use and that of future
generations? Give two examples.
Answer:
Renewable resources are natural
materials that regenerate over time, such
as sunlight, wind, water, and wood. Unlike
non-renewable resources like fossil fuels
and minerals, they are not exhausted
when used responsibly, as they replenish
naturally. Non¬renewable resources,
however, are limited and cannot be
restored within a human timescale.

To keep renewable resources available for

the future, they must be managed with
care. This involves using clean energy
sources such as solar energy and wind
power, minimising waste, and adopting
sustainable practices like responsible
forestry. For instance, installing solar-
powered street lighting helps reduce
dependence on fossil fuels. Second
example is to replant trees after timber
harvests ensures forest renewal.

Question 4.
Identify cultural practices in your home
and neighbourhood that point to
mindfulness in the use of natural
resources.
Answer:
In our home and neighbourhood, several
cultural practices reflect a mindful
approach to using natural resources.
Firstly, certain trees such as the peepal
and banyan are regarded as sacred and
are never cut down, promoting tree
conservation. Secondly, forest patches
known as sacred groves are preserved
due to their spiritual significance, helping
protect biodiversity.

Thirdly, traditional festivals involve the

use of eco-friendly materials, for
example, banana leaves for serving food,
clay for making idols, and natural dyes for
decoration. Additionally, water bodies like
ponds and wells are cleaned and
honoured through rituals, encouraging
water conservation. Lastly, practices such
as fasting and simple living during
religious observances help reduce
unnecessary consumption and promote
sustainability.

Question 5.
What are some considerations to keep in
mind in the production of goods for our
current use?
Answer:
In producing goods for current use, it’s
essential to prioritise sustainability by
using renewable resources and eco-
friendly materials. Energy efficiency
should be considered to minimise carbon
footprints, which refers to the amount of
harmful gases, like carbon dioxide,
released into the air from activities such
as production and transportation. Waste
can be reduced by recycling and reusing
materials. Ethical sourcing ensures that
materials are obtained responsibly, while
goods should be designed for durability to
reduce the need for frequent
replacements. Additionally, production
should support local communities and
reduce transportation emissions,
contributing to both environmental and
social sustainability.