Anything which can be used for our benefit is called a resource. A resource coming from nature is called natural resource. Resources are classified on different criteria.

Resources on the basis of development and usage:

• Developed Resources: A resource which is being used at present is called a developed resource, e.g .coal and petroleum.
• Potential Resources: A resource about which no data is available and is not being used currently is called a potential resource. For example; uranium in Ladakh.

Resources on the basis of origin:

• Biotic Resource: A resource which comes from any organism is called a biotic resource, e.g. firewood, fruits, timber, etc.
• Abiotic Resource: A resource which comes from non-living things is called abiotic resource, e.g. iron, coal, limestone, etc.

Resources on the basis of distribution:

• Local Resource: A resource which is found at selected places is called a local resource, e.g. diamond mines in Africa.
• Universal Resource: A resource which is found all over the world is called universal resource, e.g. air and water.

Resources on the basis of renewabiltiy:

• Renewable Resources: A resource which can be reused or which can be renewed in foreseeable future is called renewable resource. Examples: solar energy, wind energy, etc.
• Non-renewable Resources: A resource which cannot be renewed in foreseeable future is called non-renewable resource. Examples: coal, petroleum and natural gas.