Congressional Briefings
In collaboration with other scientific societies and coalitions, the AGI Geoscience Policy Program hosts congressional briefings to educate and inform policy makers on relevant geoscience topics and issues. These briefings feature scientific speakers from government, academic, and industry sectors.
(2014-02-28)
In March 1964, the largest earthquake ever recorded in North America struck Alaska, shaking Anchorage and an area larger than the state of California for more than 4 minutes and causing landslides and tsunamis that took lives in Alaska, Oregon, and California. In the 50 years since, earthquakes in the United States and worldwide have cost billions of dollars of economic loss in addition to countless lives. Advances in science and engineering have made people safer – but the job is not done.
(2014-01-29)
Speakers:
Brian Anderson, Director of Strategic Research in Energy and Professor, West Virginia University
Patrick Dobson, Staff Scientist, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
Chad Augustine, Geothermal Analysis Team Lead, National Renewable Energy Laboratory
In this briefing, speakers will highlight recent successes in geothermal research and address questions, including:
(2013-12-13)
Rare-earth elements (REE) and other critical mineral resources are essential to daily life, jobs, and national security. From cell phones to renewable energy to jet fighters, these resources are the building blocks of modern civilization. World population growth and rising standards of living in countries like China, India, and Brazil have increased the demand for mineral resources – raising the potential for supply disruptions and international conflict. Pending Congressional legislation and daily news headlines indicate a pressing need for action.
(2013-11-21)
Energy from the Earth: Practical Geoscience to Inform Energy Legislation was the first in a series of briefings meant to highlight how geoscience information contributes to effective energy and environmetnal decision making. Held on November 21, 2013, the briefing was hosted by the Geoscience Energy Briefing Consortium.