Washington State Hunters Ed Practice Exam

Which term refers to the non-use of renewable resources?

1. Conservation

2. Preservation

3. Sustainable use

4. Renewable practices

The correct answer is: Preservation

The term that refers to the non-use of renewable resources is preservation. Preservation focuses on protecting areas and resources from human use and exploitation, ensuring that ecosystems and their components are maintained in their existing state. This often involves leaving natural resources untouched or in their natural condition, prioritizing their long-term health and stability over human consumption or development, which may sometimes lead to the depletion of renewable resources. In contrast, conservation typically refers to the responsible management of natural resources to prevent exploitation, ensuring that renewable resources can be used sustainably over time. Sustainable use emphasizes utilizing resources in a way that meets present needs without compromising future generations' ability to meet their own needs. Renewable practices focus on methods that enhance or promote the use of renewable resources, which is at odds with the idea of non-use.