Earth Science solutions for sustainability: A statement by the GSA
The Geological Society of Australia (GSA) celebrates all Earth scientists, promoting scientific excellence, communication, and community engagement to create lasting positive change for the benefit of all. We foster open and accessible partnerships with all stakeholders within our society, including government, Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people, academia, and business.
We live on a planet under pressure principally due to increasing global population and climate change. The GSA strives to advance a sustainable interconnection between people, our environment, the economy, and infrastructure, enabling future generations to live in a safe, prosperous, and resilient Australia. The GSA is committed to supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Earth Science, the interface between humans and the planet, has a proud legacy. Earth Science is the discipline that contextualises our place in Earth history. Our science continues to create solutions to current and anticipated societal challenges. We routinely improve our understanding of our unique Australian continent and give context to the impacts humans have on our planet. To make informed decisions, a fundamental understanding of how the planet “works” means that Earth Science is pivotal to the long-term security of Australia’s energy transition, food security, water resource sustainability and in the mitigation of natural hazards to reduce disaster risk.
The Earth Sciences undoubtedly enhance our quality of life. Our sub-disciplines form the foundations of our nation’s prosperity, our health, and advances in technology. Earth scientists’ specialised capabilities, current knowledge and anticipated future discoveries, place us at the forefront to provide sustainability solutions to the grandest of challenges.
The ongoing energy transition, technology boom, development of circular economies, demands of infrastructure development, and risk from natural hazards require increasing numbers of highly skilled Earth scientists. The GSA promotes ongoing education spanning communities, schools, universities, and professional development. We enable our members, collaborators, and all Earth scientists to be core contributors to a sustainable and equitable future for all. The Geological Society of Australia aspires to:
- Advocate for ongoing investment into Earth Sciences,
- Promote the education of Earth Science in the context of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals throughout the community and with collaborators,
- Promote the benefits of a sustainable future for Australia and be at the forefront of continuing research in the Earth Sciences for the development of sustainable practices,
- Champion the causes of diversity, equity and inclusion within our society and be vocal advocates within our spheres of influence,
- Be an agent for positive change to working practices of the GSA,
- Develop and foster meaningful and diverse collaborations through which Earth Science can drive positive outcomes
For additional information on the key role of geoscience in solving global challenges, please download "Geoscience in Action: Advancing Sustainable Development", co-published by UNESCO and the AGU https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000384826