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How important is Earth (and Earth Science) to society?

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The paper on which this article is printed, reading glasses, paste, blade, kitchen slab, spoon, plate,  tiles, cell phone, battery, car, petrol….. What is the common thread that passes through these diverse items? They all contain materials obtained from Mother Earth! This article, being published sometime after Earth Day (April 22), showcases the significance of the earth and earth science to humans. Geology is generally understood as a subject that deals with the study of rocks but it is much more than that. It deals with the study of solid earth, its structure and composition, and all the processes that go on beneath and on the earth’s surface. Today we know that Planet Earth is not just solid earth but is a system that includes the atmosphere, hydrosphere (all water bodies), and cryosphere (glaciers, ice caps, and sea ice) in which biosphere (plants, animals, and microbes, including humans) thrives. Therefore, we call this discipline not geology but Earth System Science ; the o

India's Vision for ATCM 46: A Strategic Outlook for the Future of Antarctica

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India is set to host the 46th   Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting in 2024 at Kochi, Kerala. Experts view this meeting as crucial for the future of Antarctic Climate Change and tourism. Besides, the expiration of the Antarctic Treaty in 2048 is another area of concern for both policy-makers and the scientific community. As a Consultative Party to the Antarctic Treaty, the ATCM 46 holds great significance for India from both environmental and strategic perspectives. Introduction The recently concluded XLV  Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM45)  held at Helsinki focused on the  urgency of climate action. Climate change is one of the greatest threats facing Antarctica. The sea level rise caused by melting ice sheets is concerning the scientists and policy-makers as its effects are being felt world over. Besides, maritime safety in the Polar regions, growing tourism and geopolitical interest in Antarctica were also the important focus areas of the Helsinki ATCM. As India is

Rising Sea-level and its Sinking Consequences

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Sea level rise refers to the gradual increase in the water level of the earth’s oceans, primarily caused by the melting of glaciers and ice sheets, as well as the expansion of seawater as it warms due to climate change. This phenomenon has become a major concern in recent years due to its potential impacts on coastal communities, infrastructure, and ecosystems. Rising sea levels can result in increased coastal erosion, flooding, and storm surges, leading to displacement of people and loss of property. It also threatens critical infrastructure such as ports, airports, and power plants, and can impact marine ecosystems by altering the habitat of marine species. Sea level rise is a complex issue that requires urgent action to mitigate its effects and protect vulnerable communities and ecosystems.                                                                Image Source: Unsplash Sea level rise may be defiend as relative sea level change, considered as the change in the height of oceans