In this deck, we'll explore how we use the Earth's resources. We'll look at the difference between finite and renewable resources, and what sustainable development means. We will also examine a method called a Life Cycle Assessment, or LCA, which helps us understand the environmental impact of products. Finally, we'll cover ways to conserve resources, including recycling, and look at new methods for extracting metals like phytomining and bioleaching.

The Earth provides us with a huge variety of natural resources. We can categorise these into two main types: finite and renewable. Finite resources, like fossil fuels and metal ores, are not formed quickly enough to be considered replaceable. Once we use them up, they're gone for good on a human timescale. Renewable resources, on the other hand, can be replaced as we use them. For example, timber from trees is renewable because we can plant new trees to replace the ones we cut down.