What is a common consequence of relying exclusively on nonrenewable resources?

Relying exclusively on nonrenewable resources results in resource depletion and environmental degradation because these resources, such as fossil fuels, minerals, and natural gas, are finite and cannot be replenished within a human timescale. As the extraction and consumption of these resources increase to meet energy demands, the available supply diminishes, leading to scarcity.

Additionally, the processes involved in obtaining and using nonrenewable resources often have significant negative impacts on the environment. For example, mining, drilling, and burning fossil fuels can lead to habitat destruction, loss of biodiversity, air and water pollution, and climate change. These consequences harm ecosystems and reduce the health of our planet, highlighting the unsustainable nature of relying solely on nonrenewable resources.

In contrast, relying on renewable resources typically leads to more sustainable practices, encourages biodiversity, and helps reduce pollution. Thus, the salient issue with exclusive reliance on nonrenewable resources is the resulting depletion of these essential materials and the long-term damage inflicted on the environment.