ENVIRONMENT
Geohazards
A geological hazard (geohazard) is the consequence of an adverse combination of geological processes and ground conditions, sometimes precipitated by anthropogenic activity. The term implies that the event is unexpected and likely to cause significant loss or harm. To understand geohazards and mitigate their effects, expertise is required in the key areas of engineering geology, hydrogeology, geotechnical engineering, risk management, communication and planning, supported by appropriate specialist knowledge of subjects such as seismology and volcanology.
Geology has a direct affect on human life and the economy. Rocks and geological processes that can affect public safety in Malta include:
Flooding
Earthquakes
Landfills
Radioactive rock
Slope instability
"Civilization exists by geological consent, subject to change without notice,"
- Walt Durant
FLOODING
EARTHQUAKES
LANDFILLS
RADIOACTIVE ROCK
Radioactivity in Maltese rocks is low except in the phosphorite beds. Radon gas emissions from these beds impacts human health.
Geiger counter on phosphorite rock, Malta