Materials from the environment used by humans and other organisms, such as water, soil, air, minerals and forests.

Renewable resources regenerate naturally (e.g., forests, water); non‑renewable resources (e.g., coal, petroleum) take geological time to form and are finite.

A resource derived from living organisms; for example, forests provide timber and fodder.

A non‑living resource such as water, minerals, air or soil; e.g., water is an abiotic resource.

It helps plan management, conservation strategies and policies appropriate to each resource type.

Using resources in a way that meets present needs without compromising future generations’ ability to meet theirs.

Timber and non‑timber products like fruits, gums and medicinal plants.

Clearing or removal of forests for agriculture, urbanisation or other land uses leading to loss of tree cover.

Soil erosion and loss of habitat leading to reduced biodiversity.

Planting trees on deforested or barren land to create new forest cover.

Roots bind soil, reduce runoff and prevent erosion, maintaining soil fertility.

Regions set aside for conservation of biodiversity, such as national parks and wildlife sanctuaries (e.g., Jim Corbett National Park).

Local communities participate in protecting and sustainably using forest resources for mutual benefit.

Create buffer zones, use early warning systems and provide alternative livelihoods to reduce encroachment.

Most water is saline in oceans; only a small fraction is accessible fresh water in rivers, lakes and groundwater.

Collecting and storing rainwater from surfaces for later use or groundwater recharge.

Integrated conservation of land and water resources within a drainage basin to reduce runoff and erosion.

Drip irrigation and sprinkler systems which reduce water wastage compared to flood irrigation.

The process of water seeping into the ground to refill aquifers and water tables.

It removes contaminants from wastewater, enabling safe reuse or release without harming ecosystems.

Fix leaking taps promptly and use efficient fixtures to reduce wastage.

Collecting rooftop runoff to store for domestic use or to recharge groundwater through recharge pits.

Soil supports plant growth, stores water and nutrients, and sustains agriculture and ecosystems.

Removal of vegetation, deforestation and improper agricultural practices expose soil to wind and water erosion.

Naturally occurring inorganic substances extracted from Earth used in industry and construction.

Mining that minimises environmental damage, recovers land and reduces pollution through better practices.

From plant remains buried and compressed over millions of years under heat and pressure.

Release of carbon dioxide leading to global warming and air pollution harming health.

Recycling reduces the need for fresh mining and conserves finite mineral resources for future use.

Promote electric vehicles and public transport powered by clean electricity from renewables.

Organic material from plants and animals used as fuel or converted to biogas.

By anaerobic decomposition of organic waste (dung, kitchen waste) in biogas digesters producing methane.

Reduces indoor air pollution compared to wood burning and provides nutrient rich slurry for fields.

Reduce, Reuse and Recycle — practices to minimise waste and conserve resources.

Controlled decomposition of organic waste into nutrient‑rich manure for soil improvement.

Use reusable bags, avoid single‑use plastics and segregate waste for recycling.

Discarded electronic devices that contain hazardous substances requiring specialised recycling to prevent pollution.

Set up compost pits or vermicomposting units to convert kitchen and garden waste into manure.

The Forest Conservation Act, 1980 which regulates diversion of forest land for non‑forest uses.

By raising awareness, implementing local projects and providing technical support to communities.

Local people’s involvement in planning and managing resources to ensure sustainable use and benefits.

Construction of check dams and community recharge wells to store and recharge groundwater.

It promotes behaviour change and support for policies required to protect resources and reduce pollution.

Provide collection infrastructure, incentives and partnerships with recyclers for efficient waste handling.

Lead tree planting, awareness campaigns, energy audits and waste segregation drives at school and community level.

The Paris Agreement aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote climate resilience, indirectly supporting resource conservation.

Define rainwater harvesting, list two components (collection and storage/recharge), and state one benefit like groundwater recharge.

Use clear definitions and 2–3 bullet points with examples; include a short conclusion about importance.

Set up a household composting unit and monitor compost production and soil improvements.

Turn off lights and fans when not in use and prefer natural light during the day.