EAGE Student Webinar on Geosciences and Public Policy: Building Trust for Our Common Future by Flover Rodríguez-Portillo

Student Webinar by Flover Rodríguez-Portillo

The relationship between geosciences and public policy has never been more critical. While only a small percentage of geoscientists directly engage in policymaking, the impact of public decisions on the profession is profound—shaping salaries, defining professional roles, and determining the conditions for social license to operate. This presentation explores how geosciences enter the public eye, often under conditions of uncertainty, and how uncertainty itself becomes a driver for building social trust. Through case studies Italy, Colombia and the United States we highlight the interplay between science, politics, and society. Looking toward our common future, the challenges of population growth, energy demand, and social equity emphasize the necessity of integrating geoscientific expertise into policy frameworks. Finally, the talk underscores the essential role of professional organizations in bridging science and policy, fostering trust, and preparing future leaders. The central message is clear: thinking about the well-being of those around us is the most meaningful