Resource depletion

What is resource depletion?

Resource depletion is the consumption of a resource faster than it can be replenished. Natural resources are commonly divided between renewable resources and non-renewable resources).

Types of depletion

• Aquifer depletion (Aquifier is an underground layer of water-bearing permeable rock, rock fractures or unconsolidated materials like gravel, sand, or silt.)
• Deforestation
• Mining for fossil fuels and minerals
• Pollution or contamination of resources
• Slash-and-burn agricultural practices
• Soil erosion / degradation
• Excessive or unnecessary use of resources.

What should be improved to reduce or stop resource depletion?

We need to start using natural resources responsibly, so they can support both present and future generations. One of the areas to focus on is resource efficiency (use less, use better) in 3 areas:

• Materials efficiency
• Energy efficiency
• Water efficiency