Geology, the study of the earth, employs the methods of other sciences, as well as those unique to geology, to investigate the nature, processes, and history of the earth. Geology is vital to the discovery and recovery of earth resources including petroleum and other fuels, metals and building materials. Geologists and geophysicists also deal with environmental issues and the understanding of natural hazards such as earthquakes, volcanoes, landslides and floods. New interest in the earth as an integrated global system and shifting employment opportunities for geologists have dictated a major change in emphasis for the earth sciences. Recent trends indicate that over the next few years most geologists will be hired in the environmental field.