They're just abstract resources, some cards need research e.g. terraforming to generate population growth, which in turn can increase your total score.
Total score is calculated based on your endgame population, prestige and planet count! (Also how long your empire lasted)
There are no deep mechanics in this game (at least in this version) you are trying to manage your resources and cards are your choice. Sometimes bad stuff can happen(like rebellions or economic crises) but that's it you try to push through!(I know that this might be dissappointing but it was a jam game which I only spent the last 50 hours or so. The game if you will is in an incomplete state. I plan to release a post-jam version where everything is bit more explained and choices are lot more meaningful.