Douglas Rambo

Geosciences Supporting a Thriving Society in a Changing World Douglas Rambo

Our modern society would not exist without the geosciences. The knowledge gained through the study of the earth, oceans, and atmosphere has improved our ability to get clean water, grow food, survive natural hazards, and power our economy. The future prosperity of our society will rely on the continued decision-making that incorporates geoscience expertise along with other forms of scientific evidence. This report highlights areas of policymaking in which the geosciences play a significant role. Developed collaboratively by representatives of AGI Member Societies, it aims to represent the current priorities of the geoscience community. We focus on the many ways in which geoscience knowledge not only helps society but facilitates its ability to thrive. In addition, we emphasize the need to consider the whole earth system, which consists of many sub-systems that interact with one another, sometimes creating complex feedbacks. With this systems approach in mind, we have led with the climate change section as an exemplar of the interdisciplinary systems of our planet, which has effects that span across many sectors of the economy and throughout our lives. We urge decision-makers to draw on the expertise of the geoscience community when creating policy and educators to utilize the resources created by the geoscience community. Geoscientists are excited to share their research and continue the dialogue about how to build a thriving society.