EGU advances equality, diversity and inclusion at General Assembly event
Yesterday, the European Geosciences Union (EGU) held a dedicated event focusing on Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) within the geoscience community, marking a significant step in the organisation's ongoing efforts to nurture an inclusive professional environment. The session was part of the EGU General Assembly and took place at the EDI booth (X207, Level -2), serving as an open platform for dialogue, networking, and collaboration among attendees passionate about advancing EDI principles in the geosciences sector.
The event attracted a diverse group of participants eager to engage with volunteer members of the EGU EDI Committee and explore the range of initiatives currently underway. It served as both a learning opportunity and a forum where individuals could share personal experiences and feedback regarding the challenges faced by professionals in geosciences. This reflective and inclusive approach helped foster a supportive atmosphere, encouraging attendees to discuss sensitive issues and contribute constructive ideas for creating a more accessible and equitable community.
Opening remarks were delivered by Lisa Wingate, chair of the EDI Committee, and Peter van der Beek, President of the EGU. In their addresses, they reaffirmed EGU's steadfast commitment to inclusivity and emphasised the importance of ongoing efforts in this arena. According to Wingate and van der Beek, fostering a culture where every scientist, regardless of their background or identity, can thrive is integral to the organisation’s vision and future strategy.
One of the feature highlights was the interactive EDI community wall, where participants actively posted their reflections and suggestions. This collaborative space not only allowed for exchange of ideas but also provided the committee with valuable insights to guide its future work. The event's atmosphere reflected a collective desire to build stronger networks and support systems within the EGU membership.
Complementing the networking session, the EGU has maintained a visible EDI presence throughout the duration of the General Assembly. The EDI Booth continues to engage attendees with interactive elements such as the "EDI Inclusivity Tree," a visual representation underscoring the union’s dedication to diversity and inclusion principles. The booth also hosts an EDI Quiz twice daily, offering an engaging and educational activity designed to raise awareness about EDI topics in a participatory format. Winners of the quiz receive EDI-branded merchandise, which further promotes visibility and support for the cause.
The event's success signals a sustained commitment by the EGU to embed EDI considerations into the core of its community and activities. The conversations started during this gathering are expected to fuel ongoing dialogue and actions aimed at addressing the challenges faced by geoscientists in a range of professional contexts.
The European Geosciences Union continues to demonstrate its role not just as a scientific authority but also as a proactive organisation seeking to build a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment that benefits all its members, aligning its mission with the evolving needs and expectations of the global geoscience community.