Forensic Geoscience

Apply geological evidence to solve and prosecute environmental crimes globally

Environmental crimes demand specialised investigative techniques that connect geological evidence to legal proceedings. Forensic Geoscience: Investigating Environmental Crimes provides comprehensive coverage of methods for collecting, analysing, and presenting earth-based evidence in court. A team of experienced environmental researchers demonstrates how soil, minerals, pollen, and other geological materials serve as critical evidence in criminal prosecutions worldwide.

The book covers sample collection protocols, extraction techniques, and data presentation for expert testimony. Advanced methods include synchrotron light analysis for monitoring mining project influence zones and detecting environmental violations. Global case studies from multiple continents demonstrate practical applications, while guidance on establishing regional and international forensic databases supports ongoing investigative capacity building across jurisdictions.

Readers will also find:

• Fundamental geological processes essential for interpreting forensic evidence in criminal and environmental cases across multiple disciplines and jurisdictions
• Advanced analytical techniques including synchrotron light applications for monitoring sites of interest and detecting violations at mining operations
• Practical case studies from different continents demonstrating real-world application of geoforensic methods in environmental crime investigations
• Guidance on establishing regional and international databases to support forensic geoscience studies and cross-border environmental crime prosecution
• Multilevel educational strategies for training environmental technicians, prosecutors, lawyers, and public administrators in forensic geoscience applications

Forensic geologists, environmental scientists, criminal investigators, prosecutors, and judges will find this reference essential for understanding how geological evidence supports environmental crime resolution. The book bridges geoscience expertise with medicolegal requirements, enabling professionals to effectively investigate, document, and prosecute environmental violations.