The challenges for Z-generation geologists

Abstract

The emerging generation of geologists is facing some problems which are known to their predecessors, as well as, until now, new and unknown challenges. The fact that many associate geology with dirty technologies in which there will be less job opportunities, at the time when clean water, soil and air are being pursued, as well as considering it as old-fashioned in current time of rapidly advancing technologies, which have led to significant interest drop in geology studies. It is necessary, even in early education phase, to intrigue future geology students by explaining them that geology uses most advanced technologies and has skills which could be efficiently used in environmental protection projects. Energy transition is impossible without active participation of geologists who would implement their knowledge and experience during carbon-oxide storage, geothermal energy use and future wind farm location. The construction of high-quality climate forecast models is impossible without geologists, who study climate changes in the geological history. One of the challenges is the COVID 19 pandemic which will most probably leave a mark in the Anthropocene sedimentary record.

Keywords

• zoomers
• education
• advance technologies
• energy transition
• covid 19