MyGlasgow News

The University of Glasgow is a signatory to Scotland's Geodiversity Charter, following a recent ceremony. Clerk of Senate, Professor John Briggs took part in the formal signing.

The University of Glasgow supports the vision of Scotland's Geodiversity Charter: that Scotland’s geodiversity is recognised as an integral and vital part of our environment, economy, heritage and future sustainable development, to be safeguarded and managed appropriately for this and future generations.

Geodiversity encompasses the ways in which Scotland’s underlying geological make-up and the surface processes that shape landforms contribute to the nation’s environment, economy and wellbeing. Resources such as coal, oil, gas, building stone, soils, rivers, beaches and coasts contribute so much to our socioeconomic wellbeing and provide the fundamental underpinnings of our ecosystems and their biodiversity.

The myriad ways in which a healthy biodiversity supports us is well understood, yet without geodiversity there would be no biodiversity, since all life depends on the variety of surface environments provided by rocks, landforms and the processes that form them. With an enhanced rate of climate change now upon us, those surface processes and ecosystems appear to be increasingly in a state of flux.

Professor Jim Hansom from the School of Geographical & Earth Sciences said: "Part of the strength of the Charter is in recognising and celebrating what is already being achieved, as well as seeking to encourage organisations to work in partnership to do more. The University is already engaged in actions that maintain and enhance our geodiversity and recognise its contribution to Scotland's landscapes, natural heritage, biodiversity, economy and society; and encourage sustainable management of our environment including adaptation to changes in climate and sea-level."

 

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First published: 3 March 2014