The Earth and its reaction to climate change ?

The Geological Society of London is the oldest (1807) national geological society in the world, with more than 12,000 Fellows. An important aim of the Society is to improve knowledge and understanding of the Earth.  It also promotes professional excellence and ethical standards in the work of Earth scientists, for the public good. ​

The Society makes many awards in recognition of significant contributions in the field of geology, and the Wollaston Medal is the highest of these awards.  In 2006 this award was granted to James Lovelock,  originator of the Gaia theory. ​

In essence, this theory states that  "living organisms and their inorganic surroundings have evolved together as a single living system that greatly affects the chemistry and conditions of Earth’s surface".  

Hurricane Harvey (I.R.) - just before landfall along the Texas coast (photo NOAA)

Earthrise image - NASA

Southeast Texas under water 31st Aug.2017 (UPI - Barcroft images)

Many scientists do not agree with the view that our planet is a large organism in space, finding that available evidence is too sparse to confirm the theory.  

​David Attenborough is of the view, however, that Leonardo da Vinci was the first person to write of the Earth as an organism, as far back as 1490.  We should look to recent natural disasters - could our planet be trying to heal itself?

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