What geologic hazards do humans face around the world? Discuss the reasons for differences in the experience of these geologic hazards around the world and also the potential benefits to humans from volcanic activity

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Earthquakes and volcanoes are major geologic hazards to humans globally. However, the experience of groups globally varies in the midst of such events. For instance the 2008 earthquake in Haiti killed almost a quarter of a million people whereas the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan killed about 20,000. These differences are affected by the standards for building in individual areas, how densely populated an area is, the types of houses people live in, and the effectiveness of local and regional search and rescue and relief organizations. Volcanic eruptions, although dangerous, have also been important to human settlement. Volcanoes are much easier to predict than earthquakes so loss of life tends to be lower. In addition, geothermal activity generated by volcanism can be captured as a renewable energy source (as in Iceland). Volcanic ash may also enhance local soils, making them better for agriculture. Finally, many local economies benefit from tourist revenue generated by the draw of scenic volcanic landscapes.