Identify the types and properties with explanation of the considerations of raw material as an input for determining industrial location. Give suitable examples of industries acting as source of raw material.

Types and Properties of Raw Materials in Industrial Location:-

Raw materials are crucial inputs that influence the location of industries. They can be broadly categorized into two types: renewable and non-renewable.

1. Renewable Raw Materials: These are resources that can be regenerated relatively quickly or are continuously available in nature. They include items like agricultural products (crops, livestock), wood, and water. Industries that rely on renewable raw materials often locate close to the sources to reduce transportation costs and maintain a steady supply. For example, a paper mill might be situated near a forest to ensure a constant supply of wood for paper production.

2. Non-Renewable Raw Materials: These are finite resources that cannot be replenished in the short term. Examples include minerals, fossil fuels, and metals. Industries that depend on non-renewable raw materials might locate near these resources to minimize transportation costs and ensure access to the necessary inputs. An aluminium smelter, for instance, might be located near bauxite mines to minimize the costs associated with transporting the raw material.

Considerations for Raw Material Input in Industrial Location:-

Several factors influence the consideration of raw materials in determining industrial location:-

1. Proximity to Sources: Industries that require large quantities of raw materials, especially bulky ones, tend to locate near the sources to reduce transportation costs. For instance, cement plants often locate near limestone quarries.

2. Transportation Costs: The cost of moving raw materials from their sources to the production site is a significant consideration. Industries seek to minimize these costs by locating closer to the raw material deposits.

3. Supply Stability: Industries reliant on consistent and uninterrupted access to raw materials, such as those with continuous production processes, prioritize locations where the supply is stable.

4. Processing Requirements: Industries that involve extensive processing of raw materials might choose locations that offer specialized facilities or expertise for refining and processing.

5. Market Accessibility: While proximity to raw materials is essential, industries also need access to markets for their finished products. Balancing the availability of raw materials with proximity to consumers is crucial.

6. Environmental Considerations: Environmental regulations and sustainability concerns can influence the choice of raw materials. Some industries opt for eco-friendly inputs to align with environmental goals.

7. Infrastructure: Adequate infrastructure, including transportation networks and utilities, is necessary to transport raw materials efficiently and support production processes.

Examples of Industries as Sources of Raw Material:-

1. Agriculture: The agriculture sector provides raw materials like crops (cotton, sugarcane) and livestock (wool, leather) to industries such as textiles, clothing, and food processing.

2. Forestry: The forestry sector supplies wood and wood products to industries like furniture manufacturing, paper production, and construction.

3. Mining: Mining industries extract minerals (iron ore, coal, copper) that are essential for industries like steel production, energy generation, and electronics manufacturing.

4. Fisheries: Fisheries provide raw materials like fish, shellfish, and algae for the food processing and pharmaceutical industries.

5. Oil and Gas Extraction: The oil and gas industry extracts crude oil and natural gas, which serve as inputs for industries like petrochemicals, plastics, and energy production.

6. Farming: Farming activities supply raw materials such as wool, cotton, and silk to the textile and clothing industries.

In conclusion, the availability, type, and properties of raw materials play a pivotal role in determining the location of industries. Proximity to sources, transportation costs, supply stability, market accessibility, and other considerations shape the decision-making process for industrial location.