Geoethics and Social Geosciences in Africa: Challenges, Practices, and Perspectives

 

Theme and Scope

This Special Issue aims to explore the multifaceted intersections between geosciences, ethics, and society across the African continent. Africa presents a rich yet complex landscape of geological resources, cultural diversity, environmental challenges, and socio-economic inequalities. These dynamics call for a geoethical approach to responsible geoscientific practice that is sensitive to local contexts, promotes sustainability, and empowers communities.
We invite contributions that critically reflect on how geoethics and social geosciences can inform and improve the practice, governance, and societal impact of geosciences in Africa.

 

Key Topics of Interest (non-exhaustive)

Geoethics in African Geosciences - Ethics in geological research, education, exploration, and policy-making across African contexts.

Resource Extraction and Local Communities - Mining, oil, and gas: ethical responsibilities, social impacts, and benefit sharing.

Geoscience Education and Public Engagement in Africa - Inclusion, decolonization, and culturally relevant education in geosciences.

Natural Hazards and Disaster Risk Reduction - Ethical and social dimensions in the management of earthquakes, floods, droughts, and volcanic risk.

Climate Change, Water, and Environmental Justice - African perspectives on climate adaptation, sustainable water management, and environmental stewardship.

Indigenous Knowledge and Geoscience Integration - Case studies and critical reflections on how indigenous worldviews can enrich or challenge conventional geoscientific practices.

Geotourism, Geoheritage, and Cultural Landscapes - Ethical frameworks for promoting geodiversity, geoconservation, and sustainable tourism.

Policy, Governance, and Ethics in African Geosciences - Regulatory frameworks, transparency, and the role of geoscientists in shaping just and inclusive development.

 

Submission Guidelines

Types of Contributions: Original research articles, case studies, review articles, and reflective essays.
Length: 5,000–8,000 words (negotiable for case-specific needs)
Languages Accepted: English
Peer Review: All submissions will undergo peer review process.

 

Important Dates

Expression of Interest (Title & Abstract): 15 August 2025
Manuscript Submission Deadline: 31 December 2025
Expected Publication: articles will be published online as soon as accepted for publication

 

How to Submit Your Expression of Interest

Please send your title, abstract, corresponding author's email and affiliations of all co-authors to: giuseppe.dicapua@ingv.it

 

Guest Editors

Giuseppe Di Capua, Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia, Italy (giuseppe.dicapua@ingv.it)
Silvia Peppoloni, Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia, Italy (silvia.peppoloni@ingv.it)
(plus other regional and international experts in geoethics and African geosciences)