* Natural resource: This is the most general term, encompassing any material found in nature that humans use. This includes things like water, air, minerals, forests, and animals.
* Raw material: This emphasizes the material's state before any processing. It usually refers to materials extracted from nature for manufacturing, like wood, cotton, or iron ore.
* Organic material: This specifically refers to materials derived from living organisms, like wood, leather, cotton, or wool.
* Bio-based material: This is a newer term emphasizing the biological origin of the material and often focuses on sustainability.
The best term to use depends on the specific context and the desired emphasis.