AGI Announces Earth Science Week 2009 Theme: Understanding Climate

Alexandria, VA — The American Geological Institute (AGI) is announcing that “Understanding Climate” is the theme for the 2009 Earth Science Week.

Climate is perhaps the most visible earth science topic in the news. Climate affects humans today just as it has for millions of years. It is also pivotal in understanding how the dynamics of our planet function across different scales of time and space. Earth Science Week 2009 will engage students, educators, and the general public in understanding all the factors driving climate and the role climate plays in the history of Earth and humankind.

“Students and the general public need to understand Earth’s climate system, above and beyond the sound bites of public debate,” says Ann E. Benbow, AGI’s Director of Education and Outreach. “Earth Science Week 2009 will provide educators, students and interested citizens with the information, resources, and activities they need for scientifically sound climate education.”

AGI coordinates Earth Science Week annually in cooperation with its sponsors and the geoscience community as a service to the public. Each year, community groups, educators, and interested citizens organize celebratory events. Earth Science Week offers the public opportunities to discover the earth sciences and engage in responsible stewardship of the Earth. Earth Science Week is supported by the U.S. Geological Survey, the AAPG Foundation, and the broader geoscience community through grassroots activities.

To learn more about this week and ways to become involved; including newsletters, local events, and classroom activities, please visit the Earth Science Week website at http://www.earthsciweek.org.