A System Approach To Natural Resources Utilization

Natural resources are substances deposited by nature within a defined geographical region and used by man. They have a major economic significance in any national economy. However, their economic contribution is only a function of how they are fitted in a multi sector economy. A system approach to natural resources utilization is defined as one which treats resources as a sector in a system of many sectors such as technology, production facilities (e.g. transportation network), manufacturing, trade, and others. Some of the dynamic interactions between the resources, technology, and transportation sectors are discussed. Then, a structure of a system dynamics model is presented including its basic objectives and features. Finally, two examples of feedback loops are presented, followed by general recommendations for further investigation and research.