8 Difference Between Renewable and Non-Renewable Resources with Similarities

What is the difference between renewable and non-renewable resources?

Natural resources can be classified as either renewable or non-renewable resources. These two terms are widely talked about when discussing the issues related to climate change.

The main difference between renewable and non-renewable resources is that the former can be renewed or regained once used whereas the latter is depleted immediately after use.

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Difference Between Renewable and Non-Renewable Resources

Comparison Table (Renewable vs Non-Renewable Resources)

Basic Terms	Renewable Resources	Non-Renewable Resources
Description	These are natural resources that can be used numerous times and get replenish.	These are natural resources that can be used once and disappear forever.
Depletion	Cannot be depleted over time	Get depleted with time
Examples	Sunlight, water, wind, and also geothermal sources	Petrol, coal, nuclear energy, natural gas
Supply	Have unlimited supply	Have limited supply
Environmental Impact	Low carbon footprint and carbon dioxide emission	Have higher carbon footprint and carbon dioxide emission
Cost	The initial cost is relatively higher	The initial cost is comparatively lower
Infrastructure Requirement	Inaccessible and too expensive to acquire	Accessible and cost-effective
Area Requirement	Large land or offshore area	Lower area requirement

What Are Renewable Resources?

Renewable resources are natural resources that cannot get depleted even after using continuously. These resources are readily available and replenish for use without facing any challenges.

Examples of renewable resources are the sun, wind, geothermal, water, tides, biomass, and ocean currents. These resources are also known as perpetual resources.

However, misuse of these resources has resulted in impurities. It is advisable to manage sunlight and water with care for future generations.

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What Are Non-Renewable Resources?

Non-renewable resources are natural resources that get depleted after utilization. These resources are scarce and it is the main source of conflicts in many countries.

Examples of non-renewable resources are coal, petroleum, minerals, and natural gases. These resources occur naturally on earth and it takes time to convert into useful forms.

These resources are the major cause of pollution due to the emission of carbon dioxide. Gas the main component that contributes to global warming and climate change.

Main Difference between Renewable and Non-Renewable Resources

Non-renewable resources can get depleted whereas renewable resources cannot get depleted.
Renewable resources have low carbon emissions and carbon footprints while non-renewable resources have higher carbon emissions and footprints.
Extraction of non-renewable resources is affordable while renewable resources are too expensive.
Renewable resources require large areas whereas non-renewable resources require smaller areas.
Infrastructure for renewable resources is inaccessible and expensive whereas that of non-renewable resources are accessible and affordable.

Similarities between Renewable and Non-Renewable Resources

Both are natural resources
Both energy sources are valuable
Both are sources of conflict in some countries
Both boost economic activities
Both causes climate change

In Conclusion

Natural resources comprise both living and non-living things. Extraction of natural resources can be either beneficial or harmful to the population.

Non-renewable resources are unlimited in supply and associated with pollution. Misuse of these resources will cause climate change and health-related issues.

Renewable resources are plenty and rarely causes pollution. But utmost care needs to be considered to ensure the supply is available for future generations.

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