Resources & Land Use is a core part of GCSE Environmental Science. Revise the key concepts and common mistakes below, then lock them in with the free games.
Key concepts
Renewable vs non-renewableResources that replenish versus those that run out.
Energy sourcesFossil fuels, nuclear and renewables.
Water resourcesSupply, demand and management of fresh water.
Soil & agricultureSoil as a resource; sustainable farming.
Mineral resourcesFinite materials extracted from the Earth.
Resource managementUsing resources sustainably.
REDD+UN scheme paying countries to keep forests standing.
AgroforestryCombining trees with crops or livestock on same land.
Selective LoggingRemoving only some trees, leaving the canopy intact.
EcotourismLow-impact tourism funding conservation and locals.
CertificationLabels like FSC indicating sustainable timber.
Indigenous StewardsNative communities managing forests sustainably.
Carbon StockTotal carbon stored in a forest or other reservoir.
SequestrationRemoving CO2 from air and storing it long-term.
Common mistakes to avoid
Questions where students often pick the tempting wrong answer — make sure you know the right one:
Where does pollution come from?✗ Only from factories. ✓ Many sources: transport, farming, homes and waste, not just factories.
Is nuclear power a renewable energy source?✗ Yes, nuclear power is renewable. ✓ No — it uses finite uranium, though it is low-carbon.
Is energy recycled within an ecosystem?✗ Yes, energy cycles round endlessly. ✓ No — energy flows through and is lost as heat; nutrients are recycled.
Why does a growing human population strain the environment?✗ It has no effect on the environment. ✓ It increases demand for resources, land and energy, and adds waste/emissions.
Practise Resources & Land Use — free games
Test yourself with these quick revision games for this topic:
See all 17 games in the Subjects Arcade →
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