Earth Science Week
Contact: Geoff Camphire (gac@agiweb.org)
For Immediate Release
Earth Science Week 2013 Theme Announced: "Mapping Our World"
Alexandria, VA -- The American Geosciences Institute (AGI) is pleased to announce that the theme of Earth Science Week 2013 will be "Mapping Our World."
This year's event will promote awareness of the many exciting uses of maps and mapping technologies in the geosciences.
Earth Science Week 2013 materials and activities will engage young people and others in learning how geoscientists, geographers, and other mapping professionals use maps to represent land formations, natural resource deposits, bodies of water, fault lines, volcanic activity, weather patterns, travel routes, parks, businesses, population distribution, our shared geologic heritage, and more. Maps help show how the Earth systems -- geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere -- interact.
"With this theme, Earth Science Week highlights the ways that Earth scientists use maps to understand our planet and how humans use the land," says Geoff Camphire, AGI's Manager of Outreach. "For centuries, people have relied on maps to represent their knowledge of Earth and its systems. From old-world celestial maps and nautical charts to the satellite imaging and digital GIS technology of the 21st century, map-making provides an interactive way of knowing our world."
Reaching over 50 million people annually, AGI leads Earth Science Week 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 re¬sponsible stewardship of the Earth.
Earth Science Week is supported by the U.S. Geological Survey, the AAPG Foundation, the National Park Service, NASA, Esri, and the American Geophysical Union.
Earth Science Week 2013 will be celebrated October 13-19. For more about this week and ways to get in¬volved -- including newsletters, local events, and classroom activities -- please see the Earth Science Week web site at http://www.earthsciweek.org/.
THE WHITE HOUSE
Washington
October 4, 2005
I send greetings to those celebrating Earth Science Week 2005, sponsored by the American Geological Institute.
The desire to explore and understand is part of our Nation's character, and we have a rich history of scientific achievement. Across our country, geologists, geophysicists, and other earth and environmental scientists are expanding our knowledge of the world around us and showing us innovative ways to care for the environment. Their curiosity and passion for discovery reflect the spirit of America.
I salute the geoscience community for helping us appreciate the wonders of our natural surroundings. I also appreciate parents and teachers for working together to educate our Nation's young people about the Earth.
Your efforts inspire future generations of scientists and remind us of our responsibility to be good stewards of the environment.
Laura and I send our best wishes.
George W. Bush
THE WHITE HOUSE
Washington
October 10, 2003
I send greetings to those celebrating Earth Science Week 2003, sponsored by the American Geological Institute. Earth Science Week provides an opportunity to recognize our progress in conservation through environmental stewardship and the contributions of geologists, geophysicists, and other environmental scientists. These professionals help preserve our natural resources, protect our health, keep us safe from natural disasters, and increase our appreciation for the Earth's beauty.
This year's theme, "Eyes on Planet Earth," highlights the importance of monitoring the environment and caring for it wisely. On July 31, 2003, the United States hosted the first-ever Earth Observation Summit in Washington, D.C., where participants discussed a 10-year goal of creating an international, integrated, comprehensive, and coordinated Earth observation system.
I applaud dedicated scientists and students in Earth science and technology for their efforts to learn more about this important field. I also commend educators, parents, and all those who help raise awareness about our planet. Your efforts help us become better stewards of our precious natural resources.
Laura joins me in sending our best wishes.
George W. Bush
Earth Science Week Proclaimed Across the Nation
On October 6, 2000, President Clinton issued a message recognizing Earth Science Week and the contributions geoscientists make toward "stewardship of Earth's fragile and precious environment" and "on such present concerns as global climate patterns, natural disasters, and the conservation of our natural resources." The President's message joins more than 25 proclamations from state governors and city mayors across the nation. Earth Science Week is celebrated annually during the second week of October to increase public awareness and understanding of the earth sciences and to give people of all ages the opportunity to discover the connection between their lives and the Earth.
Join the US Geological Survey in Celebrating Earth Science Week
The US Geological Survey is sponsoring many Earth Science Week activities in locations throughout the US. Find out what's happening in your area by visiting the USGS Earth Science Week web site.
Earth Science Week, the second full week in October, is an annual celebration of the contribution geoscience makes to society. The resolution to establish Earth Science Week was initiated by the Association of American State Geologists and was read into the Congressional Record in July 1998 by Senator Ron Wyden of Oregon. President Clinton followed this proclamation in October with a message encouraging all Americans to participate in Earth Science Week activities. The promotion of Earth Science Week is one of the 50th anniversary initiatives of the American Geological Institute (AGI), of which AIPG is a member.
Earth Science Week web site:
http://www.earthsciweek.org
Other sites that are participating in Earth Science Week:
http://www.AzMinfun.com/html/esw99/overview.html
http://www.hgs.org/esw.htm
Australia
http://www.agso.gov.au/education/