Correct option is D
Statement I is correct: Natural resources are materials or substances that occur in nature and can be utilized by humans. These are often used with minimal alteration. Examples include water, sunlight, air, soil, minerals, and forest products.
Statement II is correct: Natural resources are generally classified into:
Renewable resources – Replenished naturally over time (e.g., solar energy, wind energy, biomass, forests).
Non-renewable resources – Finite in quantity and cannot be replenished easily (e.g., coal, petroleum, natural gas).
• Renewable resources are sustainable if used judiciously; overexploitation can lead to degradation.
• Conservation of resources is key to sustainable development.
• The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) emphasizes balancing resource use and environmental protection.
• Resource management includes practices like recycling, alternative energy, and efficient usage to reduce environmental impact.