Lecture Notes: Potentially Renewable Resources

Introduction

• Transition from discussing perpetual resources to potentially renewable resources.
• Often referred to as renewable resources.

Examples of Potentially Renewable Resources

• Clear freshwater
• Fertile soil
• Natural biodiversity
• Ecosystems dependent on plants and animals
• Plants and animals cultivated for human use

Characteristics of Potentially Renewable Resources

• Nature typically replenishes these resources naturally.
• Human activities can damage and lead to resources not renewing.
• Issues include destruction, damage, and overconsumption.

Anchor Slide Discussion

• Uses a picture not found in textbooks but alluded to by Miller in Chapter 1.
• Visual: Hillside, ocean with a fishing boat, smoky city.
• Each issue is detailed in different chapters of Miller's textbook.

Key Issues in Renewable Resource Management

Urbanization of Productive Land

• Visual depiction includes green landscapes turning into cities.
• Example: Long Beach, California.
• Urban areas like Ocean Boulevard described with lack of greenery.
• Environmental impact: No support for ecosystems or wildlife.

Impact on Groundwater

• Urban infrastructure prevents water absorption into the ground.
• Rainwater is diverted to storm drains, leading to the ocean.
• Consequence: Reduction in freshwater as urban areas expand.

Conclusion

• Urban development creates ecological challenges.
• Expanding cities demand more water while diminishing natural water reserves.