Plant and animal populations are renewable resources. Water is a reusable and transient resource, but the usable quantity may be reduced by impaired quality. Soil, trees, and water are classified as renewable resources, but, because their renewal or revitalization requires a major investment in time and effort, they may be more realistically considered depletable resources. In nature, there is a continuous recycling of many elements. Man would do well to observe nature's example and recycle the results of his technology.
Most resources are vulnerable to depletion in quantity and quality.
The nonrenewable resource base of mineral elements is considered finite, and depletion can only be slowed by altered priorities, new demographic considerations, improved conservation practices, and vigorous recycling procedures. The rate of resource consumption increases in direct proportion to the expansion of our wants, needs, and markets. Historically, cultures with high technological development have used disproportionately more natural resources than those with lower levels of technological development Environmental Ethic Physical well being is a fundamental necessity for survival even though man often places a higher value on other things. Social values and morals influence environmental attitudes. Mankind is continually developing an ethical base for making value judgments.