Geology for Global Development

Heather Britton

Anthropocene: Are we in the recent age of man?

Heather Britton April 2, 2019

International Chronostratigraphic Chart (v2018/08). Credit: International Commission on Stratigraphy, IUGS (distributed via www.stratigraphy.org .

Regular GfGD Blog contributor Heather Britton pen’s this weeks post, where she discusses the heated topic of whether we are, or not, living in the Anthropocene. [Editor’s note: This post reflects Heather’s personal opinion. This opinions may not reflect official policy positions of Geology for Global Development.] Naming a geological epoch the Anthropocene, literally meaning R ...[Read More]

Is geological mapping becoming obsolete?

Heather Britton March 19, 2019

The first geological map of Britain, published by William Smith in 1815. Via Wikimedia Commons

Geology students typically experience some form of mapping education as part of their course and attitudes towards this baptism into the geosciences vary from adoration to utter hatred. Whatever the opinions of the students, however, it is widely recognised that performing mapping exercises is an excellent way to learn the basics of structural geology which underpins aspects of both further geolog ...[Read More]

Heather Britton: China’s Water Diversion Project

Heather Britton February 27, 2018

Tiquan river at sunset ((Xingangshan, Jiangxi Province, China). Credit: Steffen Seitz (distributed via imaggeo.egu.eu).

China has enjoyed economic growth over the past decades, bringing undoubted prosperity to the country. But exponential industrialisation and rapid growth comes at a significant environmental cost. The nation is heavily dependent on coal-fired power, making it one of the world’s largest emitters of greenhouse gases and it’s thirst for development is a drain on vital resources, including ...[Read More]

Peat in the Tropics

Heather Britton January 16, 2018

As has been previously discussed in Robert’s blog, fertile soil is an incredibly important resource that is fast running out in many regions of the world. It is true that soil’s importance for agriculture (and sustainable development) cannot be understated, but I wish to focus on another aspect of soil in this week’s blog– its ability to store carbon. One soil type in particular, peat, is an incre ...[Read More]

About

Geology for Global Development (GfGD) is a UK-based organisation, founded by Joel Gill, working to support young geologists to make an effective contribution to international development. Through this blog we’ll be sharing articles, discussions, photographs and news about our work - all relating to the application of geology to the fight against global poverty. Many of the blogs we publish are written by guest authors, allowing young geoscientists from around the world to have their say. Do get in touch if you’d like to contribute.