Copyright
 Science / Environmental Science /  Environmental Economics

Natural Resource Economics | Definition, Objectives & Importance

Contributors: Nathan Mahr
  • Instructors
    Nathan Mahr
Explore natural resource economics. Learn the definition of natural resource economics and find its objectives. See the importance of natural resource economics.

Natural resource economics is a field of economics that studies how people use and manage natural resources. It draws on environmental, economic, and management principles to analyze how natural resources are used. The goal of natural resource economics is to understand how to manage these resources in a way that meets human needs while conserving the environment.

There are three main objectives of natural resource economics. Each of these objectives is important in order to develop a sustainable and efficient economy in relation to natural resources. The objectives are as follows:

Natural resource economics is important for a number of reasons. As previously mentioned, it can help to make certain that natural resources are used in a sustainable way, which can ensure that future generations will also be able to benefit from them. Additionally, natural resource economics can help to ensure that the benefits and costs of natural resource use are shared in a more equitable manner.

There are several areas of study within natural resource economics, each of which is important in order to gain a comprehensive understanding of the field. Some of these areas include:

There are several important impacts of environmental and natural resource economics. These impacts work together to give economists a better understanding of how to approach different environmental and resource-related topics. Some of these impacts include:

Natural resource economics is the study of how humans use, manage, and conserve natural resources. It studies how different resource-related economic activities can impact individuals, businesses, and the environment. There are several specialties and areas of focus within the field such as welfare theory, environmental economics, pollution control, resource exhaustion, and renewable resources. Natural resource economics also has several important impacts related to resource depletion, environmental protection, and resource management.

Register to view this lesson

Are you a student or a teacher?

Unlock Your Education

See for yourself why 30 million people use Study.com

Become a Study.com member and start learning now.

Become a Member  Back

Resources created by teachers for teachers

Over 30,000 video lessons & teaching resources‐all in one place.
Video lessons
Quizzes & Worksheets
Classroom Integration
Lesson Plans

I would definitely recommend Study.com to my colleagues. It’s like a teacher waved a magic wand and did the work for me. I feel like it’s a lifeline.

Jennifer B.
Teacher
Jennifer B.
FAQ
What do natural resources mean in economics?

Natural resources are materials and components that are found in nature and can be used in various economic activities. This includes things like timber, water, oil, minerals, and land. The term 'natural resources' can also be used to refer to renewable resources, which are resources that can be replenished over time, such as solar energy or wind power. Natural resources are a key part of the economy, as they are necessary for the production of goods and services.

What is the importance of natural resource economics?

There are a few key reasons why natural resource economics is important. Some of these reasons include that it can help to study and avoid resource depletion; it can help with environmental protection, and it can assist in resource management.

Create an account to start this course today
Used by over 30 million students worldwide
Create an account
All Environmental Economics Topics