This paper explores the concept of value-in-non-use within industrial business networks, emphasizing the importance of stewardship in managing natural resources and ecosystems. Traditional theories in industrial networks often link resource value to their use in relation to other resources. However, this paper argues that some resources possess intrinsic value in their non-use, which is crucial for sustainability. By examining the relational ontology of resources, the paper proposes a framework for understanding and incorporating non-use values into business network analyses. This approach aims to protect resources from overexploitation while still allowing for economic interactions. The concept of network stewardship is introduced, advocating for institutional arrangements that recognize and preserve the non-use value of resources, thereby contributing to sustainable industrial practices.