How Does Something Become a Resource?
Resources are the materials or substances that can be used for satisfying human wants. They can be classified into natural, human-made, and human resources. However, not everything that exists can be considered as a resource. So, how does something become a resource? Here are the ways:
1. Accessibility
One of the most critical factors that determine whether something can become a resource or not is its accessibility. Resources must be accessible to humans, either through natural means or human-made infrastructure such as transportation and communication networks. For example, crude oil may exist in remote locations, but if it cannot be extracted and transported to the places where it is needed, it cannot be considered a resource.
2. Utility
Resources must have utility. In other words, they must be able to satisfy human wants and needs. For example, a diamond may exist in abundance, but if it cannot be used for any purpose, it is not a resource.
3. Technology
The availability of technology plays a significant role in determining whether something can become a resource or not. For example, the discovery of how to extract petroleum from the ground and refine it into various products has made crude oil a valuable resource.
4. Economic Viability
Resources must be economically viable. In other words, the cost of extracting and utilizing them should not exceed the benefits they provide. For example, if extracting gold from a mine requires a significant amount of investment, but the price of gold is low, it may not be economically viable to extract it.
5. Environmental Impact
The environmental impact of extracting and utilizing resources must also be considered. Resources that cause significant harm to the environment may not be considered as resources in the long run. For example, the burning of fossil fuels has significant environmental impacts, which may make them less valuable resources in the future.
In conclusion, something becomes a resource when it possesses utility, accessibility, economic viability, and has minimal environmental impacts. The availability of technology also plays a significant role in determining whether something can become a resource or not.