Resource Conservation

How do the uses of renewable resources compare to the uses of nonrenewable resources?

Both renewable and nonrenewable resources can be used to generate electricity, as a heat source, and for vehicle fuel. Not all types of renewable and nonrenewable resources can be used for every application, but at least one type of each can be used for each type of application. Renewable resources are more restricted by location than nonrenewable resources. Solar, wind, geothermal, and water energy use are dependent on location. Nonrenewable resources can be transported to locations where the resource is not readily available. The use of renewable resources typically has less environmental impact in the form of pollution than the use of nonrenewable resources.

Both renewable and nonrenewable resources are used within our society. How do the uses of nonrenewable resources compare to the uses of renewable resources?

Certain types of renewable energy can be used for as many applications as certain types of nonrenewable resources.

Explain why resource availability and allocation are an important concern for governments.

Different regions have different available resources. The need for certain resources is sometimes greater than resource availability in a given area. This leads the necessity to acquire needed resources from another area. Countries can export or import resources based on need, but there is also the concern of finances as well.

Which of the following statements about biofuels is true?

Energy processing from corn biofuels is not energy efficient.

Green building involves architecture that consists completely of organic materials

False

How does importing coal contribute to pollution?

Fuel is used to transport the coal, which contributes to pollution.

Which statement best describes geothermal energy?

Geothermal energy can be used as a source of electricity.

Which of the following statements about using geothermal energy is not true?

Geothermal energy can be used to fuel vehicles.

Explain how using non-local resources has affected the United States both environmentally and economically.

Possible environmental consequences of using non-local resources include the risk of oil spills as oil is transported over waterways, increased air pollution from water and land transportation of resources, and habitat loss that comes from pipeline construction and other infrastructures. Possible economic consequences of using non-local resources include increased costs of resources, loss of jobs, increased security risks, and a trade deficit.

Which of the following is true about glass recycling?

Recycling glass is an energy-saving practice.

How does the recycling of paper differ from the recycling of other products?

Recycling paper reduces both air and water pollution.

How are resources allocated?

Resources are allocated according to demand and monetary resources. Countries with high demand of resources and the ability to pay for them are more likely to end up with needed resources.

Which statement best describes the availability of nonrenewable energy resources?

Their exact amounts are not currently known.

Imports of lumber into the United States were down 50% in 2008.

True

Which of the following countries is the top oil consuming and importing country?

United States

What two countries have nearly 50% of global coal reserves?

United States and Russia

Explain how using renewable and recyclable materials can benefit the environment.

Using renewable and recyclable materials can benefit the environment in several ways. Using recyclable materials reduces the impact of resource removal on natural habitats, as well as reducing the amount of waste generated that is introduced into the environment. Using renewable and recyclable materials can also reduce energy costs, which leads to lower levels of pollution. These practices also conserve natural resources, which are limited.

Which of the following is an environmental consequence of importing resources into the United States?

all of the above

Why would the location of resources be a concern?

all of the above

What is the most abundant global nonrenewable resource?

coal

Which of the following imports has increased over the past 6 years?

coal

Which of the following is a nonrenewable resource?

coal

The five main sources of renewable energy can be used to fuel vehicles.

false

Which of the following is not a possible consequence of the U.S. being dependent on foreign energy sources?

increased jobs

Natural resources in the environment must be allocated responsibly. Which of the following statements about allocation of resources is the most correct?

natural resources are allocated according to demand and economic strength.

Which of the following will not contribute to resource conservation?

using nuclear power

Natural resources in the environment must be allocated responsibly. Why is the location of resources a concern?

All of the above

Which resource can be used for electricity, vehicle fuel, and heat?

Biomass

Which resource can be used for electricity, vehicle fuel, and heat? wind✔ biomassgeothermal activitywater

Biomass