What is the main environmental concern associated with non-renewable resources?

Prepare for the IB Design Technology Exam. Study with quizzes, flashcards, and multiple-choice questions. Each question offers hints and explanations to ensure you're ready for your test!

The primary environmental concern associated with non-renewable resources is that they contribute to pollution and climate change. Non-renewable resources, such as fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas), release significant amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases when burned for energy. This process not only depletes these resources but also leads to detrimental effects on the environment, including air and water pollution, habitat destruction, and the exacerbation of climate change.

The burning of these resources is a major source of anthropogenic emissions, which trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, leading to global warming and associated climate impacts. This highlights the urgency of transitioning to renewable energy sources that produce minimal or no emissions, thereby mitigating these environmental concerns.

The other options do not correctly represent the characteristics of non-renewable resources. They are not abundant in nature, as they are finite and can be depleted. Non-renewable resources are not quickly replenishable; in fact, they can take millions of years to form. Lastly, they cannot be reused indefinitely since their consumption leads to degradation and often complete depletion, contrasting sharply with the qualities of sustainable materials which can be recycled or reused.

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