How is a resource defined in human geography?

In human geography, a resource is defined as a supply of materials or assets that can satisfy human needs. This definition encompasses various forms of resources, including natural resources (such as water, minerals, and forests), human-made resources (infrastructure, technology), and even cultural resources (knowledge, skills). The emphasis is on resources being valuable not only in their natural state but also in how they are utilized by humans to fulfill economic, social, and cultural needs.

This concept is fundamental in human geography as it connects the environment to human activity, demonstrating how societies adapt to and transform their surroundings for survival and development. Understanding resources in this way allows geographers to analyze patterns of resource usage, distribution, and management, and to address issues such as sustainability and environmental impact. Other options present narrower definitions that do not capture the full breadth of what constitutes a resource in the context of human geography.