Alberta is a major energy producing area. That energy production is forecast to grow. Energy production requires water: water for pressure maintenance in oilfields, water as steam for oil-sands production, water for refining, water for cooling at power plants, and water stored for generating hydroelectricity.  Energy production also creates welcome prosperity and affluence.  Prosperity attracts population, and affluent populations demand water for urban use, recreation, and environmental protection.  An affluent population also uses more energy. 

These factors create an intertwined energy-water-population system.  Everyone on earth lives in such a system, but everyone faces different local challenges because of climate, geology, land use, resources, and history. | More

We are experiencing the biggest boom in mineral and energy production ever, driven by rising world population and improvement in the standard of living in many parts of the world. The trends bode well for Earth scientists involved in mineral and energy resources and in related environmental fields. | More

Earth is our home planet. It goes without saying that some understanding of how the planet works and how humans affect the planet should be a requirement for every citizen of Earth. This is the foundation of the concept of Earth Science Literacy.  An Earth science-literate person understands the basics of how Earth systems work and knows where to find credible information about the Earth. | More

The Arctic Ocean is undergoing tremendous change and is currently transforming from a perennially sea ice covered ocean to one that may soon be ice-free in summer. The Arctic Coring Expedition (ACEX), conducted by the international Integrated Ocean Drilling Program, recovered the first long climate record from the Arctic Ocean. Previous Arctic Ocean climate records had been limited to the past ~1.5 million years, but ACEX was able to extend this important record back to ~57 million years ago.  The results from this expedition, produced by more than 50 scientists from around the globe, have transformed our interpretations of past Arctic Ocean climate, particularly with respect to ice, and its impact on the global ocean and climate system. | More