What is the process called that describes the decrease in the value of a plant asset due to the removal of a natural resource?

The process that describes the decrease in the value of a plant asset due to the removal of a natural resource is known as depletion. This term specifically refers to the allocation of the cost of natural resources, such as minerals, oil, or timber, as they are extracted or harvested. Depletion is characterized by the reduction in the asset’s value as the resource is utilized over time.

In the context of financial accounting, depletion is similar to depreciation, which is applied to tangible assets like machinery and equipment, but it is distinct in that it deals specifically with natural resources. Amortization is used for intangible assets, while capitalization involves recording a cost as an asset rather than an expense, thus not relevant to the decrease in value associated with resource extraction. Therefore, depletion is the most appropriate term to use when discussing the loss of value in plant assets tied directly to the removal of natural resources.