Non-renewable resources are natural resources that cannot be replenished within a human timescale once they are depleted. These resources include fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas, as well as minerals such as uranium and copper. They are formed over millions of years through geological processes, making their extraction and use unsustainable in the long term.
The reliance on non-renewable resources poses environmental challenges, including pollution and climate change. As these resources are consumed, they become scarcer, leading to increased extraction costs and potential geopolitical conflicts. Transitioning to renewable resources, such as solar and wind energy, is essential for sustainable development.