The Journal of Geoethics and Social Geoscience published four new open access articles on 21 February and 3 March 2025 in the Special Issue "25 Years of Advancing Geoethics and Social Geosciences at INGV".
We remind you that this journal is diamond open access and is supported by the IAPG, the IUGS Commission on Geoethics and the CIPSH Chair on Geoethics. No Article Processing Charge (APC) is requested to authors and no fee to readers.
The new articles can be cited as follows:
Cocco, M., Paciello, R., Bailo, D., Locati, M., Tanlongo, F., Schirru, L., Fredella, M.I., Mercurio, D., and Freda, C. (2025). The ethical dimension of sharing solid Earth Science data. Journal of Geoethics and Social Geosciences, 2(Special Issue), 1–30. https://doi.org/10.13127/jgsg-64
Abstract:
Open Science is the paradigm driving the sharing of research data worldwide. It includes the ambition to make FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable and Re-usable) data sharing the default. FAIR guiding principles for research data have been recently proposed to scientific communities as the new horizon for sharing data. The FAIR principles create the conditions to foster data sharing and improve data stewardship, provided that several legislative, organizational, and ethical issues are addressed. In this paper, we aim to discuss the ethical dimension of sharing solid Earth science data. Earth scientists have a long-lasting tradition in data acquisition, quality control, and standardization, being the key actors in feeding and implementing metadata and services for qualification, storage, and accessibility. Pan-European Research infrastructures like EPOS (European Plate Observing System) involve scientific communities and research organizations federating facilities and resources to ensure data management and interoperability through e-science innovation. After introducing the ethical issues associated with the protection of personal data, intellectual property rights, and data misuse, we will focus on the impartiality for public good. This opens a new horizon to the ethical dimension of open access to research data, going well beyond research integrity. This assumes an outstanding relevance when referring to solid Earth science data since they also concern natural and anthropogenic hazards and risk communication relying on sharing scientific information with different stakeholders. Although we present a specific perspective for solid Earth science, we believe that the addressed ethical dimension is relevant for environmental science in general.
Keywords:
Open Science, Research Data Management, Research integrity, Impartiality for public good
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Amato, A., Cugliari, L., Filosa, S., Graziani, L., Romano, F., and Valbonesi, C. (2025). Tsunami Ready, a public engagement tool for risk mitigation: The Italian experience. Journal of Geoethics and Social Geosciences, 2(Special Issue), 1–26. https://doi.org/10.13127/jgsg-67
Abstract:
In this article, we describe the functioning of a Tsunami Warning (and mitigation) System (TWS), with particular attention to its downstream component. Besides the scientific and technological developments of such systems, it is important that scientists get involved with society at various levels to help reducing the tsunami risk, supporting actions by local communities and authorities, and supporting the interface between science and policy. In particular, we point our attention to the importance of involving citizens in the risk reduction strategy, starting from the background of the UN Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (SFDRR) 2015-2030 which focus on people and their needs: There has to be a broader and a more people-centred preventive approach to disaster risk. The approach of the Italian Tsunami Alert Center of the Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV) for tsunami risk mitigation involves several activities aimed at increasing people’s awareness and preparedness, including the UNESCO IOC Tsunami Ready Recognition Programme (TRRP) discussed in this contribution. After describing the study of tsunami risk perception carried out in recent years in Italy, we focus on the experience gained in our country over the past four years, particularly examining the TRRP of Minturno, the first Italian municipality to receive this recognition in July 2024.
Keywords:
Tsunami risk, Risk perception, Tsunami ready, People-centred early warning, Safe ocean
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Crescimbene, M. and La Longa, F. (2025). The contribution of psychosocial research to earthquake and tsunami risk mitigation. Journal of Geoethics and Social Geosciences, 2(Special Issue), 1–27. https://doi.org/10.13127/jgsg-56
Abstract:
This article explores the psychosocial dimensions associated with the study of natural hazards, focusing on research activities and key experiences gained during Italy’s major seismic emergencies from 2009 to the present. Particular attention is given to the perception of seismic and tsunami risks, based on research conducted by the Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV) in Italy since 2012. The article examines the memory of past disasters and its role in fostering community awareness of the natural hazards that affect their regions. It also highlights INGV’s initiatives, including risk awareness campaigns targeting citizens and educational programs designed for schools. Furthermore, the seismic emergency information interventions conducted during the three most recent large-scale emergencies—Abruzzo (2009), Emilia-Romagna (2012), and Central Italy (2016–2017)—are presented. These emergency information activities not only meet the need for reliable information and counter misinformation but also offer opportunities for psychoeducational interventions. Ultimately, these efforts aim to offer psychosocial support and promote the restoration of local social networks. The themes discussed contribute to the development of effective strategies and actions for risk reduction.
Keywords:
Psychosocial research, Natural hazards, Risk mitigation, Risk perception, Emergency psychology
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Lanza, T. (2025). Exploring the potential of collaboration between geoscientists and artists for a sustainable future of the Earth. Journal of Geoethics and Social Geosciences, 2(Special Issue), 1–26. https://doi.org/10.13127/jgsg-54
Abstract:
Over the past two decades, communication technologies have transformed the world into a global village, thereby facilitating the rapid dissemination of information. This development enables life-saving data exchanges but also alters perception, leading to a disconnection from nature and a decline in environmental awareness and conservation efforts. Engagement with digital devices detaches individuals from the natural world, highlighting the need for initiatives that promote nature-based approaches and outdoor activities to foster ecological responsibility. Some studies have highlighted that even if people are aware of ecological problems that can interfere with human health, they resist adopting virtual behaviour. This article examines the impact of communication technologies on planetary sustainability education and alienation from nature since industrialization, contributing to humanity’s maladaptive environmental relationship. It also explores the potential of collaboration between geoscientists and artists to address this issue through personal experiences and interdisciplinary insights. In 2015, the Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV) proposed the first session at the European Geosciences Union (EGU) General Assembly to bring together scientists and artists. This article retraces this journey, demonstrating how combining these two cultures can foster planetary respect and enhance the well-being of both scientists and artists. By using narratives at INGV and geo-mythology to educate young learners, enthusiasm and curiosity about the territory they inhabit have been raised. This approach has boosted their creativity and provided a unique opportunity to increase awareness of territorial hazards while simultaneously appreciating its natural beauty. Similarly, integrating art into scientific communities has shown significant potential for disseminating scientific knowledge to the public, emotionally engaging audiences, reconnecting people with nature, and enabling scientists and artists to critically examine issues relevant to their respective fields. Finally, the implications of geoethics are explored.
Keywords:
Geoscience, Art, Planet sustainability, Geoethics, Technology
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