Three new JGSG articles, open access, published in the special issue on "Women in Geosciences"
- iapgeoethics
- Oct 2
- 4 min read
The Journal of Geoethics and Social Geoscience (JGSG) published three new open access articles on 25, 26, and 29 September 2025 in the Special Issue "Women in Geosciences", edited by Daniela Di Bucci, Luisa Sabato and Martina Zucchi.
We remind you that this journal is diamond open access. No Article Processing Charge (APC) is requested to authors and no fee to readers.
The new articles, open access, can be cited as follows:
Mazzini I. (2025). Women in Quaternary sciences in Italy. Journal of Geoethics and Social Geosciences, 3(Special Issue), 1-16. https://doi.org/10.13127/jgsg-88
Abstract:
The Quaternary period, covering the most recent 2.6 million years of Earth’s history, provides crucial insights into climatic variability, landscape evolution, and the development of human societies. In Italy, with its diverse geological and archaeological heritage, Quaternary research has long thrived at the intersection of geology, paleontology, archaeology, and environmental sciences. Traditionally male-oriented, Quaternary research in Italy has undergone a significant transformation in recent decades, with women researchers playing an increasingly prominent and influential role.
This article examines the evolving role of women within the Italian Association for Quaternary Research (AIQUA), exploring their contributions to scientific advancement and leadership. Drawing on historical data and a dedicated survey among AIQUA members, it analyzes gender dynamics, professional trajectories, and institutional representation. The results reveal both progress and persistent disparities, particularly in positions of visibility and authority, highlighting the ongoing need for structural reform and cultural change. The profiles of pioneering scientists such as Maria Bianca Cita and Maria Follieri illustrate the foundational role of women in shaping the discipline and serve as enduring sources of inspiration. Ultimately, the article advocates for sustained efforts in mentorship, inclusive governance, and increased visibility to promote a more equitable future for Quaternary research in Italy.
Keywords:
Gender equity, Quaternary Sciences, Women in science, AIQUA
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Rosati A., Sabato L. and Tropeano M. (2025). The geoethical legacy of Zonia Baber. Journal of Geoethics and Social Geosciences, 3(Special Issue), 1-20. https://doi.org/10.13127/jgsg-89
Abstract:
The history of science is punctuated by the unacknowledged contributions of women who, despite systemic barriers, fought for both knowledge and justice. Among them, the American teacher of geology and geography Zonia Baber (1862–1956) stands out not only for her advancements in geoscience education but, in parallel, for her relentless activism in defence of human rights, environmental preservation, and social equity. A fierce opponent of imperialism, racial oppression, and gender discrimination, she used her academic expertise as a platform for advocacy, recognising the inextricable link between geosciences and ethical responsibility. She worked within international networks to expose social injustices and the exploitation of both people and natural resources, promoting a vision of geosciences that served not only intellectual progress but also humanitarian and environmental causes. Simultaneously, her environmental engagement foreshadowed a modern geoconservation ethos, emphasising the need to safeguard geological heritage as both a scientific and cultural asset. This article contributes to a wider doctoral research project on public geological communication, which includes the recovery of overlooked histories of pioneering women in geosciences to help inspire girls to pursue scientific education. Framed within this broader context, Baber’s legacy is re-examined here through the lens of geoethics, demonstrating how her vision, rooted in the convergence of science, activism, and justice, offers a significant perspective for contemporary debates on the ethical role of the geosciences in shaping a more equitable and sustainable world.
Keywords:
Geoethics , Geoscience and activism, Women in geosciences, Historical gender bias, History of geosciences
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Petrella E., Del Gaudio E., Tufano R., Papini M. and Ducci D. (2025). Assessing gender distribution in Engineering Geology and Hydrogeology disciplines in Italy, with a focus on academic career progression and scientific productivity. Journal of Geoethics and Social Geosciences, 3(Special Issue), 1-18. https://doi.org/10.13127/jgsg-80
Abstract:
The European Union's strongly focuses on gender equality through policies like the Gender Equality Strategy 2020-2025 and the 2025 Roadmap for Women's Rights. Despite progress in gender equality policies across the EU, women still encounter major obstacle in Academia, especially in the STEM field. This study examines possible gaps in Engineering Geology and Hydrogeology disciplines in Italy, with a focus on academic career progression and scientific productivity.
Data collected from the MUR-CINECA database (2001-2024) and SCOPUS (2014-2024) show that women continue to be underrepresented in all Academia stages, covering only 19.3% of Full professors, 29.6% of Associate professors, and 30.6% of Researchers. Additionally, analysis of publication metrics shows that especially at the Full professor level, female academics exhibit scientific productivity that are comparable to - or even higher than - those of their male colleagues. However, women usually have lower H-index values and less last-author positions, suggesting possible barriers to research recognition and leadership opportunities.
Through an anonymous survey among female Engineering Geologists and Hydrogeologists, it emerges that about 60% of women have experienced of workplace discrimination, while 38% of mothers felt their careers were temporarily sidelined during maternity periods. Women reported difficulties with work-family balance, due to decreased involvement in research networks, and limited access to fieldwork opportunities.
The findings indicate that solving gender inequality requires actions that attend not just to representation numbers, but also to the nature of roles, recognition and research leadership opportunities combined with National/European laws that protect women during maternity periods.
Keywords:
Gender inequality, Academic career, Bibliometric indicators, Engineering Geology, Hydrogeology
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