A non-renewable resource is a natural resource that cannot be replaced or regenerated within a human timescale once it is depleted. Examples include fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas, as well as certain minerals and metals. These resources form over millions of years through geological processes and are used extensively for energy production, transportation, and manufacturing. The finite availability of non-renewable resources raises concerns about sustainability and environmental impact, prompting the need for renewable alternatives and conservation strategies to ensure future energy security.