The International Year of Planet Earth was initiated by the International Union of Geological Sciences and UNESCO and was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in December of 2005. The aim of IYPE is to demonstrate new and exciting ways in which Earth sciences can help future generations meet the challenges involved in ensuring a safer and more prosperous world.

Earth scientists find and develop the resources that society needs. Their knowledge of planet Earth helps address the challenges facing it. Their respect for the Earth and its systems leads to responsible development. Hence the phrase: “Earth Sciences for Society”.

The Canadian National Committee has two main objectives for the years 2007 through 2009: we will let Canadians know how much Earth scientists have contributed to their prosperity and well-being and we will send out a message to young people that will encourage more of them to study Earth sciences. We want to tell Canadians that we have helped build a safer, healthier and more prosperous society. Our raw materials and most of our energy come from the Earth. Earth scientists’ knowledge of earth systems and earth history can help analyze and address climate change in a practical way. We can help predict geohazards and plan development that mitigates their impact.

The mining and petroleum industries have been very successful in recent years in finding and sustainably developing resources. Our universities and government departments are contributing to this success. The International Year of Planet Earth gives us a wonderful opportunity to tell our story to the Canadian public.

A Canadian National Committee is in place. It has representation from industry, academia and government agencies across the country and we will continue to add members to it. We welcome ideas from any technical society, earth scientist or interested Canadian on activities or projects for IYPE.

For more information on the Year of Planet Earth, see IYPE International ( http://www.esfs.org/) or the IYPE Canadian National Committee website (http://www.iypecanada.org/)