What is an example of a non-renewable resource?

Fossil fuels are classified as non-renewable resources because they form over millions of years from the remains of ancient plants and animals. The extraction and use of fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, deplete these resources at a rate much faster than they can naturally regenerate. Once whittled down, fossil fuels cannot be replaced on a human timescale, making them finite and unsustainable in the long run.

In contrast, options like wind, solar energy, and hydropower are all renewable resources. These energy sources are naturally replenished over time and are not depleted when used. Wind energy harnesses the kinetic energy of wind, solar energy captures sunlight, and hydropower utilizes flowing water to generate electricity, all of which can be continuously renewed as long as the environmental conditions allow. Thus, fossil fuels represent a critical example of non-renewable energy resources due to their limited availability and environmental impact.