The statement "Resources are not they are until they become" by Erich Zimmermann highlights the idea that resources are not simply objects or substances, but rather potential capabilities that can be realized through human ingenuity and effort.
Zimmermann argues that resources are not fixed or finite, but rather are created and shaped by human knowledge and technology. For example, oil is not a resource until it is extracted from the ground and refined into gasoline or other products. Similarly, a tree is not a resource until it is harvested and processed into lumber or paper.
Zimmermann's statement also emphasizes the importance of human agency in the use of resources. Resources are not simply given to us, but rather must be discovered, developed, and managed. This requires human knowledge, skills, and creativity.
Zimmermann's statement is particularly relevant in the context of sustainability. It reminds us that we cannot simply rely on existing resources, but must also invest in new technologies and practices to develop new resources and use existing resources more efficiently.
Here are some specific examples of how Zimmermann's statement can be applied to different types of resources:
Natural resources: Natural resources such as oil, coal, and minerals are not resources until they are extracted and processed. For example, oil is not a resource until it is extracted from the ground and refined into gasoline or other products.
Human resources: Human resources such as labor, skills, and knowledge are also not resources until they are developed and utilized. For example, a person's education and training are not resources until they are used to perform a job or create a product.
Financial resources: Financial resources such as money and credit are also not resources until they are used to invest in productive activities. For example, money is not a resource until it is used to start a business or buy a machine.
Zimmermann's statement is a reminder that resources are not simply things that we have, but rather things that we create and use. It is a call to responsibility, urging us to use our resources wisely and to invest in the future.