What term describes resources that cannot be replenished once consumed?

The term that describes resources that cannot be replenished once consumed is "nonrenewable resources." These resources are finite and exist in limited quantities, meaning that once they are used up, they cannot be replaced naturally within a human timescale. Examples include fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas, as well as minerals such as gold and copper. The extraction and consumption of nonrenewable resources raise concerns about sustainability and environmental impact because their depletion can lead to resource scarcity and increased ecological harm.

In contrast, renewable resources can be replenished naturally over time, such as solar energy and wind energy. Natural resources encompass both renewable and nonrenewable types, while commodities refer to basic goods used in commerce that can represent both types of resources. Understanding the distinction between these categories is important for discussions about environmental conservation and resource management.