Geoethics in Higher Education of Hydrogeology

Abstract

The education and training of geosciences (where hydrogeology is included) should be marked out by: (1a) a total scientific accuracy with adequate detail, depth and scope; (1b) the use of appropriate and updated teaching methodologies and didactic means; (2a) a full respect for the trainees’ scientific and cultural background, as well as for the socioeconomic reality of the local (continent, country or region) of education or future practice; (2b) the regional, national and supranational legislation about groundwater and water resources; and, fundamentally, (3) with a maximum respect for the Earth natural processes and ecosystems. The teaching and training of hydrogeology with ethics prepare geosciences experts, whose activity is crucial to promote the social and ecological balancing, and consequently to avoid local and regional conflicts.