Geologists

There are many different fields of geology to specialise in, each with its own specific fields of work, and value. Studying palaeontology is key to understanding how organisms evolve and interact with each other, while if you work in mineralogy, you may look at how valuable minerals were formed, how pollutants disperse, and from a commercial point of view, how best to mine, and make the most of these natural resources. Other fields include engineering geology, which plays a vital part in the planning of any manmade structure, and any hazards that may be faced.

The earth is changing all the time, but it only takes a brief look at the different fields of geology, and what they involve, to know what a vital role geologists play in understanding how the world works. There may always be unanswered questions, but the work of geologists, some of which dates right back to Ancient Greece, has made vital progress in this field. Alfred Wegener’s work in monitoring Arctic weather, along with William Smith’s first UK geological map, are just two examples of work by well-known geologists, that helped pave the way for further studies.

The way climate change, global warming, and sustainable development have hit the headlines today, only goes to show that geology has a continuing and ever growing importance in today’s society. It doesn’t matter which field of geology you are talking about, they all have their part to play in helping us understand how the world works, and this site aims to introduce you to geology as an earth science, as a career, and as something that will ultimately help shape our future.