Three Size Lessons: Use of Earth's Resources

Objectives

• Understand how humans utilize Earth's resources.
• Differentiate between finite and renewable resources with examples.

Human Use of Earth's Resources

• Warmth, Shelter, Food, Transport:

  • Resources often produced by agriculture.
  • Example: Cotton from plants.
  • Modern agriculture meets global cotton demand.

• Planting and Timber/Fuel:

  • Trees planted for timber or fuel.
  • Power stations use biofuels (e.g., wood chips).

• Synthetic Alternatives:

  • Chemistry replaces natural resources.
  • Example: Synthetic rubber from crude oil; 2/3 of world rubber is synthetic.

Finite vs. Renewable Resources

Finite Resources

• Definition: Cannot be replaced as quickly as used.
• Examples:
  • Fossil Fuels: Millions of kilograms used daily; formation is slow, leading to eventual depletion.
  • Metals: High extraction rates from Earth's crust could lead to depletion.

Renewable Resources

• Definition: Can be replaced as quickly as used.
• Examples:
  • Wood: Renewable as it can be replenished.

Importance of Sustainability

• Sustainable Practices:

  • Meet current needs without hindering future generations.

• Role of Chemistry:

  • Artificial fertilizers increase food production.
  • Provides safe drinking water.
  • Processes like phyto mining and bioleaching improve metal extraction efficiency.

Future Learning

• More on the processes and roles of chemistry in resource use in upcoming lessons.
• Resources and questions available in the revision workbook (link provided in video).