[Geoinfo] On behalf of Italian science and scientists

[Gustavo Bonorino]

To the Italian President
To the Italian Minister of Justice

With due respect:

The accusation of manslaughter brought upon seven Italian scientists for alledged improper advice regarding the 2009 L'Aquila earthquake is a mistake that will leave Italy defenseless with respect to natural hazards.

Italian earth scientists are very much concerned about public safety when and where it is endangered by natural phenomena such as landslides, ground collapse, floods, and, of course, earthquakes. They work eagely and effectively to that end, as demostrated by their numerous and innovative publications. Without their work Italy would never have implemented urban and building codes that minimize risk from man-made and natural disasters. Codes that must be periodically updated and improved upon by other earth scientists. This structured safeguard to Italian human lives and property will be lost by a judicial mistake that stems from profound misunderstanding.

This letter is not simply a plea on behalf of seven colleagues. It is a plea for reason. It is a plea for a better understanding among the political leadership and the scientific community. Actors in each of these social bodies have shortcomings. Economic and political situations misjudged by the political leadership have had severe consequences on the general population, as evidenced by the ongoing crisis in Europe and elsewhere. Similar misjudgements occur in the scientific community regarding disasters of natural origin. Note, however, that in both cases 'disaster' originates in human actions. Had the buildings in L'Aquila been built, or retrofitted, to withstand a modest earthquake, the death toll would have been negligible.

For a safer Italy, the political and the scientific bodies must work together, not in opposing sides.




Respectfully yours,

Dr. Gustavo González-Bonorino
Passport 4.536.074





Gustavo González-Bonorino
Centro Austral de Investigaciones Cientificas 
CADIC
Av. Bernardo Houssay 200
Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego (9410)
Argentina

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