Why is it necessary to conserve mineral resources? Suggest any four ways to conserve mineral resources. (CBSE 2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2017)

OR

Explain the importance of conservation of minerals. Highlight any three measures to conserve them. (CBSE 2016)

Conservation of minerals is essential because:

1. It is a finite resource as only one percent of the earth’s crust comprises of workable minerals and it is non-renewable.

Four ways to conserve minerals:

1. Use of mineral resources has to be planned to avoid over-exploitation and contribute to sustainable development.

2. Technology has to be improved in a way that low-grade ores can be used at lower costs.

3. Metals should be recycled.

4. Scrap metals and substitutes must be used rather than continued mining of ores.

Explanation: Use of minerals is an essential and irreplaceable feature for development in any country. But if not used judiciously, it may exhaust soon.