GEOETHICS IN CANADA: EXAMINING DIVERSITY IN THE GEOSCIENTIFIC COMMUNITY

In the geosciences, the working paradigm for principles and standards for behaviour and practice should be based on solid values and ethics that cross cut subdisciplinary specialties, employment sectors and political boundaries. This aspect of geoethics applies at the highest levels of generalization. At a granular level, geoethical principles and standards may vary considerably amongst practitioners depending on the focus of their work and obligations, expectations and guidance from employers, location of employment, legal framework, as well as the extent of accountability, liability and responsibility. This presentation reviews the similarities and differences in values and ethics that are current in Canada and under which geoscientists now practice. Comparisons are made between the private sector, academia and different levels of government where geoscientists are employed in Canada. Comparisons are also made between local, provincial, national and international levels of practice as applied to Canadian geoscientists. It is clear from this analysis that considerable variability in the principles and standards of geoscientific work exists and that collective attention is required to improve the level of geoethics in certain areas. Subdisciplinary, geographic and sector differences must be minimized and similarities should be harmonized to ensure level playing fields across the nation. Although the discussion focuses on Canadian geosciences, such a focus should be applied in the geosciences internationally.