Wonderful GeoLifestyle readers, we have now come to the end of our time together; this will be my last edition as the lead of GeoLifestyle. It’s been an honor and a pleasure working with AAPG to bring you these exciting weekly insights. Thank you for reading along, submitting your photos and stories, participating in giveaways, and sharing your kind thoughts and words.
Well, enough sappiness—let’s get to it!
IMAGE ’24 and Energy Tourism
I’m at IMAGE ’24 adding stamps to my Global Passport to Energy—you know, metaphorically—by learning about countries that boast bright futures in diverse energy AND tourism!
Morocco
Morocco’s energy strategy balances traditional resources such as natural gas and oil with ambitious renewable projects, including one of the world’s largest solar farms, the Noor Ouarzazate Complex.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Marrakesh and explore the stunning Sahara Desert, all while observing the kingdom’s pioneering efforts in energy.
Belize
While still dependent on imported fossil fuels, Belize is increasingly expanding its renewable initiatives, aiming for energy independence and setting the bar high for other Central American nations.
Tourists are drawn to Belize’s stunning rainforests, vibrant beaches, and ancient Mayan ruins, where they can appreciate the nation’s commitment to preserving its cultural and natural roots.
South Africa
South Africa’s energy landscape is dominated by coal and more recently, offshore drilling, but the country is making strides in wind, solar, and nuclear energy to further diversify its energy portfolio.
Visitors can explore South Africa’s diverse landscapes, from coal mines to wind farms, all set against the breathtaking backdrops of Table Mountain and Kruger National Park.
Australia
In addition to being a global leader in coal, natural gas, and mined lithium, Australia is also investing in solar and wind to diversify its vast energy sector and effectively utilize its vast expanses of land.
Visit the Outback’s mining sites and coastal projects while exploring iconic landmarks such as the Great Barrier Reef. Just watch out for the massive spiders hiding in the mines!
The big picture: Many countries gain economic benefits from tourism that aid in their bids for energy independence. For your next trip, consider visiting a country with innovative energy advancements that you can see firsthand!
Living a Geo-Lifestyle
Kovop/ Shutterstock.com
For me, GeoLifestyle is more than a newsletter, it’s a mission to help incorporate geology into the lives of people from every background, encouraging them to live a truly enriching geo-lifestyle.
Bridging the knowledge gap
It’s no surprise that exploring the geology behind everyday things makes the field easier to understand, but it also inspires a personal connection to Earth’s features and processes.
Learning about minerals in household items or the impacts of microplastics highlights real-world geological implications, helping people make informed and sustainable choices.
Tying geology into popular culture creates relatable touchpoints that deepen appreciation of the geological foundations governing Earth, and even fictional worlds!
A creative outlet for geoscientists
Fun activities such as rockhounding or hiking in geologically rich areas let professionals reconnect with their passion for discovery in a relaxed setting.
Personal projects such as mapping local geology or putting together rock displays enable geoscientists to creatively apply their skills outside of work and make something beautiful and meaningful.
Inspiring the next generation
Kids only know what they’re introduced to and best respond to things when they’re presented in an exciting, hands-on fashion.
Activities such as fossil hunting or geology-themed games introduce kiddos to Earth sciences early on and plant seeds of interest that could inspire future careers!
Fostering a love for geology in the next generation prepares leaders of the future to address global challenges including climate change and resource management.
The bottom line:
Incorporating geoscience into everyday life deepens our understanding of the Earth, fostering a more curious and mindful society.
Whether you’re a student, professional, parent, retiree, an educator, or just someone with a passion for geology—there are endless ways for anyone who loves the natural world to live and benefit from a geo-lifestyle.
Again, I want to thank you all for your support and interest in my writing. If you’d like to keep reading my work, you can join this interest list to stay updated about the release of an upcoming personal project.
Ahead of Sharon taking my place starting next week, please take the time to learn a bit about her! You can check out her Geo-Blog, her portfolio of paleontology fiction books, and follow her on Instagram. I can’t wait to watch GeoLifestyle enter a new chapter with her!
With that, I bid you adieu and hope you never stop exploring ways to fit geology into your lifestyle! ❤️🌎
Cate Larsen
Editor, GeoLifestyle
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