GEOHERITAGE AND GEOETHICS: TWO SIDES OF THE SAME COIN

Geoheritage (GH) is a “descriptive term applied to sites or areas of geologic features with significant scientific, educational, cultural, and/or aesthetic value” (GSA Position Statement on Geoheritage). “Geoethics deals with the ethical, social and cultural implications of Earth Sciences research and practice, providing a point of intersection for Geosciences, Sociology and Philosophy...” and specifically calls on geoscientists to “...promote the development of geoparks and geo-tourism, in order to create social awareness about the value of the geological heritage and geodiversity” (IAPG Constitution). Geoheritage and Geoethics are closely aligned with personal and professional values, through interactions with society, and for stewardship of Earth. All geoscientists should have an interest in, and a responsibility for, identifying, preserving, and developing GH sites for the use and enjoyment of future generations. A primary concern has to do with responsible sampling practices. Many outcrops are irreplaceable and must be preserved as they contain unique mineral, rock or fossil occurrences, or have preserved evidence of geologic process or history important for future research and education. GH sites have tremendous educational value, and instructional experiences at these sites can contribute substantially to recruitment and training of next generation geoscientists to ensure the long-term health of the geoscience disciplines. GH sites provide great opportunities for outreach to the public by communicating the relevance and importance of geoscience to the larger community regarding societal health, safety, and economic development through promotion of geotourism. Special attention to cultural sensitivity is needed when engaging and empowering indigenous people, people of color, and people with lower economic status to participate in GH projects. Issues of environmental, generational, and distributional justice can be addressed in GH sites. Finally, GH sites often have intrinsic and aesthetic value, and preservation of these sites is an act of responsibility and trust for future generationsand for stewardship of Earth. Become involved with preserving and developing GH sites in your own setting. For more information https://www.americasgeoheritage.com/.