What does the term "resource management" refer to in environmental geography?

The term "resource management" in environmental geography encompasses the planning and control of resource use to ensure that resources are utilized sustainably and efficiently. This approach involves assessing natural resources—such as water, forests, minerals, and biodiversity—and implementing strategies to manage them in a way that meets current needs while preserving them for future generations. Effective resource management considers not only the economic aspects but also the ecological and social implications of resource use. It aims to strike a balance between development and conservation, ensuring that resources are available and secure for future use.

The other options, while related to resource management, do not fully encapsulate its broader definition. For instance, focusing solely on resource depletion or financial aspects limits the understanding of resource management as it neglects the crucial element of sustainable practices and planning. Similarly, specific allocation of land for commercial forestry is one aspect of resource management but does not reflect its comprehensive nature across all types of resources and uses.