The Earth’s Impact on Life and Life’s Impact on the Earth

Abstract

This chapter weaves together the three threads that make up the fundamental geologic principles: geologic time, plate tectonics, and evolution. The chapter examines their impact on life on the Earth and, in turn, biological life’s imprint on the planet. Each system, or sphere, of the Earth, water, air, solid Earth, and life, are interdependent. At the intersection of these spheres are critical systems, such as soil and the carbon cycle, both of which support life. The current situation on the planet, with diminishing resources and population numbers and changes in climate, are current concerns. The interrelated web of life in response to climate change and implications for the future benefits from a deep-time perspective with geology as a framework. Past hothouse times, tipping points, and understanding how the Earth works as well as the biography of the Earth through the lens of geology, can go far as a guide to future conditions on the planet—to listen to the song of the Earth.