the protection/ the definite article I came aross these sentences on BBC news and just want to make sure that I understand that the before "protection" correct. The definite article is used there because there isn't more than one type (concept?) of protection of New zealand natural resources or that the means that that protection includes all the protection done to New zealand natural resources. ****************************** New Zealand takes the protection of its natural resources very seriously, particularly because its agriculture- and tourism-based economy depends on it. ****************************** Thank you!