How understanding the past of the earth can help inform and guide decisions is that we make today about how to sustainably leave on the earth. The example in south Asia, we have some of the biggest mountains in the world, rivers transporting material from those mountains out to the sea. However the river does not stay at the same position but they might jump. Consequently, river moves frequently. For Example, Mississippi river that drains most of the continental US, it pushes material from the Rocky Mountain. However its course, which we are familiar with today, is shaped only 500 years ago. Understanding the river jumping system is very important for us to live sustainably on these landscapes. Because if you knew that the river has the characteristic to move, you may not choose to leave near the river. Additionally, river carries many materials and seeds, which helps the earth to be more rich.

Ultimately, as long as earth’s surface is our home, we need to carefully manage the resources and risks associated with living in dynamic environment.