Question

Differentiate between consumptive use and productive use. Give examples of each.

Short answer

Consumptive use is defined as the use of resources in a way that they are not recoverable or are depleted, e.g., burning of fossil fuels, whereas, productive use is the use of resources such that they can be replenished or they aid in the production of other resources, e.g., using land for growing crops.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Consumptive Use

Consumptive use refers to the utilization of a resource in such a way that it's not returned to its original state or it is depleted without the potential for regeneration or renewal. An example of consumptive use is the burning of fossil fuels. Here, the fuels, once burned, cannot be recovered and are permanently depleted.

Understanding Productive Use

On the other hand, productive use refers to the use of a resource in a way that it could be replenished or it gives birth to the production of other resources thus adding to economic development. An example of productive use is the cultivation of crops. Here, the land is being used to grow plants which can be sold or used for nourishment, and also, if managed effectively, this use does not deplete the soil, but can even improve its fertility for further use.