KWALIFIKACJE GEOLOGICZNE – POTRZEBY ZMIAN

Abstract

GEOLOGICAL QUALIFICATIONS – THE NEED FOR CHANGES

Abstract. The good quality of geologist’s work is crucial in the process of successful developing of mineral investment projects. Well-done geological documentation really constitutes a mineral deposit in economic terms, makes the investment decisions easier, and reduces the risk of the project. For this reason, some countries (including Poland) recognize the need to regulate the profession of a geologist and allows employment of only those persons who are adequately educated, professionally experienced, and will achieve a status of a qualified, competent geologist. Good practice in this area has been introduced by the Federation of European Geologists (EFG). The professional title of European Geologist (EG) is granted by the EFG based on four principles: Academic Qualifications, Professional Experience, Ethics, and Continuing Professional Development. In addition, the use of the EG title requires presenting an annual report of activities in the three designated areas and the need to obtain a specified limit of points. The fulfillment of these conditions extends the validity of the EG title for another year. This practice differs from the Polish realities. Geological qualifications (professional licences) are also achieved in Poland according to the regulations in the Geological and Mining Law (Ustawa, 2011), but these are granted for a lifetime. The authors call for a change in the current approach and indicate the arguments in favour of new rules. Some of them would be based on the solutions applied by the EFG. The authors suggest to begin a discussion by geological societies on changes of the current regulations.