Natural resources are elements of the natural environment that are utilized to meet human needs—such as water, land, forests, minerals, soil, and energy sources. Proper planning ensures efficient use, conservation, and sustainability of these resources in settlements and urban development.
1️⃣ Types of Natural Resources in Planning Context
2️⃣ Role of Natural Resources in Planning
Land Planning
Identify suitable areas for development vs. conservation.
Preserve fertile agricultural land and forest cover.
Avoid construction in floodplains, wetlands, or ecologically sensitive areas.
Water Resource Management
Ensure adequate water supply for residential, industrial, and recreational use.
Integrate stormwater drainage and flood mitigation.
Promote rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge.
Energy Planning
Identify potential for renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydro.
Plan for energy-efficient buildings and infrastructure.
Environmental Sustainability
Maintain green spaces for urban cooling, recreation, and air purification.
Plan for waste management and pollution control to protect soil, water, and air.
Disaster Risk Management
Analyze resource vulnerability: rivers prone to flooding, landslide-prone areas, drought-prone zones.
Plan settlements away from high-risk areas and integrate mitigation measures.
3️⃣ Integration with Urban and Regional Planning
4️⃣ Key Principles for Resource-Based Planning
Sustainable Use – Ensure resources meet current needs without compromising future availability.
Conservation – Protect forests, water bodies, soil, and biodiversity.
Integration – Incorporate resource management into land-use, infrastructure, and urban design.
Equity – Provide fair access to natural resources for all communities.
Risk Assessment – Consider natural hazards (floods, droughts) in development plans.
✅ In summary:
Natural resources form the foundation for all planning activities.
Planning must balance development with conservation.
Sustainable, resource-conscious planning ensures environmental protection, social welfare, and long-term economic viability.
