The Earth Science Literacy Initiative is holding a 12-day online conference starting May 12 to establish the “Big Ideas” and supporting concepts that all Americans should know about Earth sciences. The group’s motivations seem remarkably similar to those that prompted formation of COPUS:

“Critical decisions involving Earth science are continuously made within the political and educational realms, with significant impacts on all American citizens.”

“The research community must do a better job of helping the public understand the most important concepts emerging from geoscience research. However, understanding scientific discoveries requires a science-literate population.”

“A deep schism is opening up within our country: at the same time that tremendous scientific advances are being made, increasing percentages of Americans are refusing to believe them.”

Complementary projects already are well along in Ocean Literacy Network, Atmospheric Science Literacy Framework, and Coalition for Climate Literacy.

Blog posting contributed by:

M. Lee Allison, PhD, PG
lee.allison@azgs.az.gov
State Geologist & Director
Arizona Geological Survey
416 W. Congress, #100
Tucson, AZ 85701
520-770-3500 fax-3505
www.azgs.az.gov