Earth Science for Society (ESfS)
Earth Science for Society (ESfS) is a premier educational event that transforms the University of Calgary’s MacEwan Hall into a hub of geological discovery. This free, three-day event is designed to showcase the critical role that Earth Science plays in our daily lives, reaching thousands of students, youth groups, and members of the public each year.
Interactive Pavilions The event is organized into four immersive themed pavilions, each focusing on a different pillar of geoscience:
- Resources and You: Discovering the minerals and materials found in our everyday products.
- Energy for Us: Exploring the transition and future of global energy systems.
- One Dynamic Earth: Understanding the powerful forces like plate tectonics and volcanoes that shape our planet.
- Our Future!: Examining the role of geoscience in environmental protection and sustainability.
Experiential Learning ESfS goes beyond traditional lectures by offering dynamic, hands-on demonstrations. Popular attractions include the returning Yukon Dan gold mining exhibit, where students can try their hand at panning, and a dedicated fossil station where they can interact with ancient biological history. To guide their journey, the event provides a specialized Scavenger Hunt Booklet, turning the exhibit floor into a massive educational game.
Career Inspiration A core mission of ESfS is to inspire future generations to pursue careers in the Earth sciences. By highlighting the diverse opportunities available—from geoscientists and environmental engineers to helicopter pilots and data managers—the event helps students visualize their own place in the workforce of tomorrow. In 2025 alone, the event welcomed over 1,500 young people and 21 youth groups for guided visits.
Foundational Support The scale and success of Earth Science for Society are made possible through the collaboration of dozens of volunteers and the support of the Canadian Geological Foundation (CGF), ensuring that this vital educational experience remains free and accessible to all.
