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OBJECTIVES
Stemming from the goals of the International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS), the IGC aims to promote development of the earth sciences relevant to preserving Earth's natural environment, using all natural resources wisely and improving prosperity and the quality of human life; and to strengthen public awareness of geology and advance geological education.
The general objectives of IGCs's are to:
- Contribute to the advancement of fundamental and applied research in the geological sciences.
- Provide a general assembly of geologists where ideas and information can be freely exchanged.
- Provide the opportunity, by way of geological excursions, to examine geological problems and features in the field.
Specific goals include: Improved identification and assessment of energy and mineral resources;
Clarity in understanding global change;
Assessment of geological hazards;
Employ the learnings of the geological sciences; and
Facilitate international and interdisciplinary cooperation.
An outcome of achieving of the objectives is furthering public welfare by assuring that geology makes appropriate contributions to and influences public policy decisions of an international nature.
Secondary objectives include, but are not limited to;
- Increase IUGS membership and IGC participation,
- Disseminate information on the geological sciences,
- Increase and enhance professional education in the geological sciences,
- Enhance existing affiliations and partnerships, along forming new ones, and
- Increase visibility of the geological sciences.
The increased visibility of geological sciences is a particularly broad objective. For the purposes of AUSTRALIA 2012, this will mean increased awareness of the geosciences amongst younger people, additional delegates, government and non government organisation awareness, corporate awareness, financial involvement, and perhaps most importantly encouragement of increased numbers choosing the earth sciences as a career path. Public outreach to the City of Brisbane is also a broad goal, however, the returns on this effort are uncertain. Outreach also encompasses enhanced understanding in the developing countries through a high level of participation in the congress
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