nonpoint source pollution Contaminants resulting from a cumulative effect of small
amounts of contaminants gathered from a large area.
ocean acidification Process whereby the oceans’ uptake of anthropogenic carbon dioxide
from the atmosphere causes an ongoing decrease in ocean pH.
point source pollution Contaminants that enter a waterway or water body through a
single site.
surface water Water found in rivers, lakes, or freshwater wetlands.
waterborne diseases Diseases caused by organisms transmitted via contaminated water.
water pollution The contamination of water bodies by substances, mostly anthropogenic,
which cause a harmful effect on living organisms.
Points to Consider
- Even though water is a renewable resource, there is not always availability of clean
water. Control of water pollution, such as removal of phosphorus or creating buffer
zones near farms, helps to preserve this renewable resource for the future. - Methods such as wastewater reuse, atmospheric water generation, reclaiming water,
catchment management, and protection of aquatic systems can all contribute towards
the dual goals of keeping water clean and also available for future generations.
25.3 Lesson 25.3: Natural Resources
Lesson Objectives
- Explain what natural resources are.
- Describe renewable resources.
- Explain what nonrenewable resources are.
- Discuss the use of fossil fuels as an energy source and what energy sources are available
as alternatives. - Discuss how reducing, reusing, and recycling can help conserve resources.
Check your Understanding
- What are our natural resources?
- What is the difference between a renewable and nonrenewable resource?