Integrating Geoethics, Geoeducation, and Sense of Place: Nourishing Sustainable Human-Earth Practices in the Anthropocene

The Anthropocene demands a critical reassessment of humanity’s relationship with the Earth, bringing geoethics, geoenvironmental education, and the concept of sense of place to the forefront of sustainable human-Earth interactions. Geoethics addresses the ethical dimensions of these interactions, underscoring the responsibility of geoscientists to advance sustainable practices and raise public awareness of pressing environmental issues. Through a systematic literature review of 98 records across major research databases—including Scopus, Web of Science, ProQuest, and JSTOR—using the keywords "geoethics AND education" and "geoethics AND place" (up to October 2023), 22 eligible studies were identified and analyzed. This review highlighted key themes and research gaps within this interdisciplinary field. Notably, the past decade has witnessed a surge in geoethics research, demonstrating its relevance across domains such as geoconservation and geoeducation. Central to this discourse is the concept of sense of place, which refers to the emotional and cognitive bonds individuals form with specific locations. Cultivating a strong sense of place is crucial for fostering environmentally responsible behaviors and civic engagement. In this context, geoenvironmental education emerges as a powerful mechanism for nurturing such connections. By fostering appreciation for local environments and integrating ethical considerations into the study of the geoenvironment, geoeducation bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and lived experience. Despite the evident interconnectedness of geoethics, sense of place, and geoenvironmental education, research examining their integration within educational frameworks remains scarce. Empirical studies that explicitly link these concepts in pedagogical settings are particularly lacking, underscoring an urgent area for future research. Priority should be given to developing effective tools for assessing the impact of geoethical education on students' environmental attitudes and behaviors. Fostering collaborations among geoscientists, educators, ethicists, and policymakers is imperative for establishing comprehensive frameworks that promote sustainability and ethical decision-making. Integrating the ethical dimensions of geoscience practices into educational curricula is vital for embedding geoethics as a cornerstone of geoenvironmental literacy. By embracing diverse perspectives and pedagogical methodologies, we can enhance the scope and impact of geoethics. Linking geoethics with geoenvironmental education and sense of place deepens our understanding of the ethical responsibilities individuals and communities bear toward the Earth. This integrative approach not only strengthens environmental stewardship but also lays the groundwork for a more sustainable and resilient society.