Page 146 - Health, Population and Environment Education 9

It focuses on keeping the quality and quantity of resources intact. But this principle is
more ideal not real and practical since it is not possible for us to live without utilizing
them at all. The efforts and programmes made or launched under this principle have
not become much effective and successful. But this principle is the best in case of the
conservation of those resources which are at the brink of extinction.

Principle of relative conservation
Principle of relative conservation states that the resources should be conserved along
with using them in planned and rational ways. This principle holds the view that the
resources available in nature are to be used for our benefits but in name of benefiting from
their use we should not destroy them. It includes the integrated concept of consumption
and conservation. However, over-exploitation of the resources due to unplanned and
unthoughtful decision and economic activities leads to the destruction of nature and
natural resources. The resource we use today should be conserved for the future generation
as well. They also have to utilize the resources and live comfortable life. So, principle of
relative conservation of resources encompasses the sustainable use of natural resources.

Differences Between the Principle of Absolute Conservation and Principle of Relative
Conservation

Absolute Conservation Relative Conservation
1. This principle directs not to use the 1. This principle allows to use the
resources at all. resources but in careful way.
2. This principle is more applicable in the 2. This principle is more applicable in
conservation of non- renewable resources the conservation of perpetual and
and rare and endangered animals. renewable resources.
3. This principle becomes more effective 3. This principle becomes more effective
in zoo, national park and conservation in programmes such as community
areas. forests, bee keeping, fish farming, etc.
4. It is more theoretical or ideal concept. 4. This is more practical concept.

Conservation and use of natural resources

It is the integrated concept of consumption as well as the conservation of natural
resources. This concept emphasizes on the planned and careful utilization of the resources
and conservation of them at the same time. Resources are not only for consumption but
for conservation as well. This concept states that the resources should be utilized but
the quality and quantity should not be decreased. Forests resources should be used for
wood, firewood, furniture but at the same time we should not forget to plant new trees
to compensate for the trees cut down. Similarly, the water resources should be utilized
but at the same time the pollution in water resources and desertification of the places
should be stopped. Our various economic and development activities that we carry out
in nature should not cause destruction of nature and natural resources. For example,
while constructing road, the forest resources should not be destroyed. Similarly, while
utilizing the water resources for harnessing hydroelectricity they should not be polluted.

146 GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9