Model Answer 1:

The rapid depletion of natural resources, such as petroleum, forests, and freshwater, is a pressing global issue that demands immediate attention. This unsustainable consumption poses numerous problems for both the environment and human society. In this essay, we will discuss the problems caused by the overexploitation of natural resources and explore potential solutions to address these challenges.

One significant problem caused by the depletion of natural resources is environmental degradation. Extraction activities, such as mining and drilling for oil, often result in habitat destruction, soil erosion, and water pollution. For instance, the deforestation of the Amazon rainforest not only leads to the loss of valuable biodiversity but also contributes to climate change by reducing the Earth's capacity to absorb carbon dioxide. Moreover, overexploitation of freshwater sources leads to water scarcity and can have severe consequences for ecosystems and human populations, as witnessed in regions such as the Middle East and parts of Africa.

The depletion of natural resources also has adverse social and economic impacts. As resources become scarce, conflicts over access and control can arise, leading to geopolitical tensions and even wars. For example, disputes over oil reserves have fueled conflicts in several regions worldwide, resulting in political instability and human suffering. 

To tackle the problems caused by the consumption of natural resources, proactive measures need to be taken. One crucial solution is the promotion of sustainable practices and the transition to renewable energy sources. Governments and industries should invest in research and development to advance renewable technologies such as solar and wind power. By shifting away from fossil fuels, we can reduce carbon emissions, mitigate climate change, and alleviate the pressure on depleting resources. Countries like Germany and Denmark have made significant strides in renewable energy adoption and serve as models for sustainable development.

Furthermore, effective resource management and conservation strategies are vital. This includes implementing strict regulations on deforestation, establishing protected areas, and promoting responsible mining practices. Collaboration between governments, industries, and local communities is crucial to ensure the sustainable use of resources and the preservation of ecosystems. 

In conclusion, the alarming rate at which natural resources are being consumed poses significant problems for the environment, society, and the economy. Environmental degradation, conflicts, and economic instability are among the consequences of this unsustainable exploitation. However, by promoting sustainable practices, transitioning to renewable energy sources, and implementing effective resource management strategies, we can address these challenges and strive towards a more sustainable future.

Sample Answer 2:

With the ever-increasing population in the world and rapid industrial growth, the consumption of natural resources like oil, trees and freshwater is ever-growing and though those resources are limited and non-renewable in many cases, we have taken very few steps to prevent the overuse of those invaluable resources. As a result, catastrophic outcomes are obvious and we should take every possible measure to solve these problems.

The reservation of oil and freshwater is limited and overconsumption of these resources will exhaust their stocks. When the oil reservation will go down, nations will fight over it. Production and mobilisation will be hampered due to the scarcity of fuel. Freshwater is another big area of concern as it is a critical issue for the living organism and less than 3% of water reservation on the earth is fresh water. Freshwater resources are depleting fast and this will cause our living on the earth impossible. As most countries are trying to improve their economic conditions through industrialisation, we are imposing an unbearable burden on the natural ecosystem. This increasing rate of consumption threatens our very existence on Earth.

All nations and every individual should put their best effort to combat this problem. It is a global issue and hence should be addressed globally. Moreover, every government should ensure adequate legislations and strict laws to prevent the over-consumption of important natural resources. Factories, mills and industries should not be allowed to contaminate waters and should be severely fined if found guilty. Furthermore, strict monitoring of logging activity should be in place and plantation of trees should be encouraged. Along with government initiatives, individual efforts to address this problem should also be in place.

In conclusion, I would reiterate that important natural resources like water, oil, and forests should not be exploited, and individual and government initiatives can reduce the problems caused by the overuse of those resources to a great extent. If we fail to do that, the consequence would be too severe to control.