I'm interested in an assessment of the use of global natural resources
by humanity. Starting with big picture overview in any form that makes
sense to you (e.g. by country, by resource, etc.), I'd like to later
drill down to resource consumptions by different categories (e.g.
transport, construction, heating, ...), and subsequently even more
detail, such as comparing alternate products (e.g. wood vs. cement for
construction).

I would like to do this as a series of questions, and for now I'm just
interested in developing a bit of a research plan and get a rough idea
what information is out there. The purpose is to come up with an
educational tool and guide (perhaps a website, given permission by
Google) that helps people (e.g. me) to make environmentally-informed
consumer choices. It should have both elements: practical guide & big
perspective.

For now, do what you think is worth $20 on 'big picture resource
consumption' information that is available on the web. Also if you
have any ideas for a 'research plan' for systematically drilling down
to more detail and summarizing disparate inforamtion from various
sources this will be appreciated within the scope of this first
question.

Thx and have fun!