Renewable Resource

Dictionary Says

Definition of 'Renewable Resource'

A substance of economic value that can be replaced or replenished in the same amount or less time as it takes to draw the supply down. Some renewable resources have essentially an endless supply, such as solar energy, wind energy and geothermal pressure, while other resources are considered renewable even though some time or effort must go into their renewal, such as wood, oxygen, leather and fish. Most precious metals are considered renewable as well; even though they are not naturally replaced, they can be recycled because they are not destroyed during their extraction and use.  


Investopedia Says

Investopedia explains 'Renewable Resource'

Renewable resources have become a focal point of the environmental movement, both politically and economically. Energy obtained from renewable resources puts much less strain on the limited supply of fossil fuels (non-renewable resources). The problem with using renewable resources on a large scale is a cost problem and in most cases, more research is needed to make their use cost-effective.  


Related Definitions

  • Peak Oil

    A hypothetical date referring to the world's peak crude oil production, whereby following this day, production rates will begin to diminish. This concept is derived from geophysicist ...
    Read More »
  • Carbon Credit

    A permit that allows the holder to emit one ton of carbon dioxide. Credits are awarded to countries or groups that have reduced their green house gases below their emission quota. Carbon ...
    Read More »
  • Green Fund

    A mutual fund or other investment vehicle that will only invest in companies that are deemed socially conscious in their business dealings or directly promote environmental ...
    Read More »
    • Kyoto Protocol

      An international agreement that aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and the presence of greenhouse gases. Countries that ratify the Kyoto Protocol are assigned maximum carbon ...
      Read More »
    • Nonrenewable Resource

      A resource of economic value that cannot be readily replaced by natural means on a level equal to its consumption. Most fossil fuels, such as oil, natural gas and coal are considered ...
      Read More »
    • Biodiesel

      A fuel derived from organic oils, such as vegetable oil, rather than petroleum. Biodiesel’s use and production are increasing. It’s typically used for aircraft, vehicles and as heating ...
      Read More »
    • Alternative Energy ETF

      An exchange-traded fund that invests in companies engaged in industries serving alternative energy production and research. Some companies found within alternative energy ETFs may only ...
      Read More »
    • Natural Capital

      A reference to the stock of natural resources, such as water and oil. Unlike other forms of equity (such as machines and buildings), which can be created on a regular basis, many natural ...
      Read More »
    • Sustainable Business 20 - SB20

      A group of stocks that are chosen according to the companies' ability to provide products and services while contributing to a sustainable economy. The SB20 are selected yearly by a ...
      Read More »

Articles Of Interest

Partner Links