There are two major categories of resources -- namely renewable and non-renewable. As opposed to non-renewable resources, which diminish with their constant use, renewable resources do not. Non-renewable resources, if not managed properly might become non-existent. This is because the rate at which they are used is much higher than the rate at which they are replaced. Renewable resources include water, geothermal energy and wind energy. Non-renewable resources include coal, natural gas and oil.

Water is the most abundant natural resource in the world. In fact, it covers up to 70.9 percent of the Earth’s surface. However, it is important to note that only about 3 percent of water is fresh and out of this, only about less than 1 percent is available for direct human use. It is therefore important to manage water efficiently. Proper management of water is achieved by water treatment both in small and large scale. Black and gray water, industrial effluents and storm water can undergo treatment. The treatment of the water returns it into its original state both for domestic and industrial use or for safe disposal. Water treatment is essential since it ensures that there is sufficient water for human use. Management of water is also achieved by a change in lifestyle. Using only the amount of water you require and not leaving taps running will go a long way in conserving water.

Recycling and reusing are better alternatives to disposing of some items. For better management and efficient utilization of resources, reduction in the amount of usage is important. Better efficiency constitutes a change of lifestyle which will in turn mean less waste. Not only are recycling and reuse ways of managing resources, but they are also important in preventing pollution. Careless disposal of substances such as plastics glassware, ceramic, oil, porcelain and metals have devastating effects on soil and water. In addition, these hazardous wastes could have serious effects on both land and aquatic life forms. These materials are inorganic, implying that bacteria cannot break them down. Instead of disposing, recycling and reusing these substances are much better options. When oils, for instance, are recycled, they generate different grades of oil which have different applications. Waste paper that is also not biodegradable is recycled into different uses, such as tissue paper.

Implementation of laws and regulations to curb waste of resources is important in the management of resources. These laws and regulations enlighten people on the need to conserve the resources for the future generations. Invoking of heavy penalties for individuals who do not adhere to the laws and regulations will make people avoid waste of resources. The government and private institutions alike are expected to advertise on the media and any other platform on the importance of proper management of resources.

Nearly all vehicles use fossil fuels to move from one place to another. Discouraging individuals from using individual cars goes a long way in reducing the amount of fuel consumed on the global scene. Buses and trains are alternatives to personal vehicles because they have a lower person-to-fuel ratio. This ensures that the few available fossil fuel deposits in the world are not exhausted, while at the same time curbing excessive pollution of the atmosphere. For individuals who do not prefer mass transport, hybrid vehicles that use alternative sources of energy, such as butanol and ethanol, are a viable option. Ethanol and butanol are readily available since they are derived from agricultural produce such as corn.