A natural resource is any material or substance that occurs in nature and can be utilized by humans for economic gain or survival. This includes renewable resources, like timber and fish, and non-renewable resources, like fossil fuels and minerals. Natural resources are essential for countless practices, including energy production, manufacturing, and food supply. Sustainable management of these resources is vital to ensure they remain available for future generations and to mitigate the negative impacts of overexploitation and resource depletion.