Geoscientific maps of the environment as an essential tool in planning

Abstract

Without support by the geosciences it will not be possible to develop regulations for the future of mankind which provide good chances for survival. This is due to the fact that the environmental potential is being steadily restricted, as is obvious from the growing scarcity of mineral resources, energy sources, groundwater, and farming land. Thus, the author has pointed out in several publications that part of our geoscientific research capability needs to be reoriented towards the future. This includes a transformation and translation of our geocartographic material into maps that can be easily understood by the planner. The Geoscientific Map of the Natural Environment Potential (GMNEP) meets the requirements mentioned above. The individual maps are presented here and explained in detail. At the same time, the reader is informed about the plans agreed upon by the IUGS Commission on the International Geological Map. All colleagues interested in this important task are invited to cooperate with the subcommission in charge, the Subcommission on Maps of Environmental Geology (SC-MEG).