Explore the World Through Geography, Natural Resources & Daily History
Clear, reliable and engaging guides that help you understand our planet — from UK geography education to global natural resources and On This Day history events.
Explore, discover, and learn about the wonders of our world! At Earth Site, we’re passionate about bringing geography, history, and science to life for curious minds of all ages. Whether you’re delving into historical events, uncovering the mysteries of the natural world, or seeking interactive resources, you’re in the right place.
Here, you can uncover the stories behind historical events, explore the natural wonders of our planet, and gain valuable insights into how the Earth’s systems shape our daily lives. From the towering peaks of mountain ranges to the far-reaching impacts of human innovation, we aim to make every topic both engaging and informative.
Start your journey of discovery with us today, and let’s make learning an adventure!
What We Cover
Earth Site brings together engaging and accessible educational content designed to help you understand the world, its history, and its natural systems.
🌍 Geography Education (UK & Worldwide)
We publish clear, easy-to-understand geography resources for students, teachers and curious learners. Our guides support geography education in the UK and cover physical geography, climate, ecosystems, population, and global development.
⛏️ Natural Resources & Environmental Geography
Explore detailed country profiles covering natural resources, mining, energy, geology and global environmental challenges. We show how nations manage minerals, water, land and ecosystems, and why these resources matter.
📅 On This Day in History
Every day has a story. Our On This Day history series features major events, anniversaries, traditions, and cultural milestones from around the world — with timelines, context, and fun facts.
TIMELINE
Exploring the Hidden Gems of Donetsk (Donets’k): A Journey Through Ukraine’s Industrial Heartland
Welcome to Donetsk, a city in eastern Ukraine that is often overlooked by travellers. In this blog post, we will uncover the hidden charms of Donets’k and why it is worth visiting. From its rich history to its vibrant cultural scene, Donets’k has something to offer every type of traveller. Whether you are interested in exploring the city’s industrial past, immersing yourself in its cultural offerings, or simply enjoying its natural beauty, Donets’k has it all. Summary Donets’k is a hidden gem in Ukraine with rich history and culture to explore. The city was once the industrial heartland of Ukraine and has since transformed into a hub for arts and nature. Visitors can enjoy museums, art galleries, theatres, nature reserves, parks, and gardens in Donets’k. Donets’k’s cuisine is a must-try, with local markets and high-end boutiques offering a variety of options. Travellers can discover hidden gems off the beaten path and easily navigate the city with various transportation options. The Industrial Heartland of Ukraine: A Brief Overview Donets’k has a long history as an industrial city and is often referred to as the “industrial heartland” of Ukraine. The city’s industrial development began in the late 19th century with the discovery of coal and the establishment of coal mines. This led to the rapid growth of Donets’k as a major industrial center, attracting workers from all over Ukraine and beyond. The impact of industry on the city’s development cannot be overstated. Donets’k became a hub for coal mining, steel production, and heavy machinery manufacturing. The city’s skyline was dominated by smokestacks and factories, creating a unique industrial landscape that...
The Perilous Presence of Arsenic (As) in British Waters: A Cautionary Tale
Arsenic contamination in UK water systems has become a growing concern in recent years. The potential health risks associated with arsenic exposure have raised alarm bells among the public and policymakers alike. Arsenic is a naturally occurring element that can be found in rocks and soils. However, human activities such as mining, industrial processes, and agricultural practices can also contribute to arsenic contamination in water systems. This article will explore the historical use of arsenic in the UK, the health risks associated with exposure, the sources of arsenic in British waters, the distribution of arsenic in water systems, the challenges of detecting and monitoring arsenic levels, the regulatory framework for arsenic in UK water, the role of water treatment technologies in mitigation, and the public health implications of arsenic in drinking water. Summary Arsenic contamination in British waters is a growing concern. Arsenic has been historically used in the UK and poses health risks. Arsenic in British waters comes from natural and human sources. Arsenic levels in UK water systems vary regionally. Detecting and monitoring arsenic levels in water is challenging. The Historical Use of Arsenic in the UK: A Brief Overview Arsenic has been used for various purposes in the UK throughout history. It was commonly used as a pesticide to control pests on crops and as a wood preservative to protect timber from decay and insect damage. The use of arsenic as a pesticide was particularly prevalent during the Victorian era when it was used to combat pests such as rats and insects. The legacy of arsenic use has left a lasting impact on the environment and...
Discovering the Hidden Gems of Dnipropetrovs’k: A Journey Through Ukraine’s Industrial Heartland
Dnipropetrovs’k, located in eastern Ukraine, is a city that often goes unnoticed by tourists. However, this hidden gem is definitely worth a visit. With its rich industrial history, vibrant cultural scene, beautiful parks and gardens, and a wide range of tourist attractions, Dnipropetrovs’k has something to offer for everyone. Whether you are interested in exploring the city’s past, immersing yourself in its culture, enjoying delicious cuisine, or simply relaxing in its natural beauty, Dnipropetrovs’k has it all. When visiting Dnipropetrovs’k, you can expect to be pleasantly surprised by the city’s charm and character. The city may not have the same level of fame as other Ukrainian cities like Kyiv or Lviv, but it has its own unique appeal. Dnipropetrovs’k offers a more authentic and less touristy experience, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in Ukrainian culture and daily life. From its bustling markets to its quiet parks, the city has a certain charm that is hard to find elsewhere. Summary Dnipropetrovs’k is a city full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. The city has a rich industrial history that can be explored through its museums and monuments. From theatres to art galleries, Dnipropetrovs’k has a vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can enjoy traditional Ukrainian cuisine as well as international flavours at the city’s best restaurants. Dnipropetrovs’k’s parks and gardens offer a chance to discover the city’s natural beauty. The Industrial History of Dnipropetrovs’k: A Journey Through Ukraine’s Past Dnipropetrovs’k played a crucial role in Ukraine’s industrial development. The city was founded in 1776 as a fortress and quickly grew into an important industrial center. During the Soviet era, Dnipropetrovs’k...
Exploring the Fascinating Properties of Germanium: A Look into the Versatile Element
Germanium is a chemical element with the symbol Ge and atomic number 32. It is a lustrous, hard, grayish-white metalloid in the carbon group, chemically similar to its group neighbors silicon and tin. Germanium has a wide range of applications due to its unique electronic, optical, and catalytic properties. It is used in the semiconductor industry, as a catalyst in chemical reactions, in infrared and optical fibers, in medicine, as a geothermal energy source, in nanotechnology, and in metallurgy. Summary Germanium is a chemical element with unique properties that make it useful in a variety of applications. In the semiconductor industry, germanium is used as a substrate for electronic devices due to its high electron mobility. Germanium can also act as a catalyst in chemical reactions, making it useful in the production of plastics and other materials. The optical properties of germanium make it useful in infrared and optical fibres, which are used in telecommunications and other industries. Germanium has potential applications in medicine, geothermal energy production, nanotechnology, metallurgy, and emerging technologies. The Unique Electronic Properties of Germanium Germanium plays a crucial role in the semiconductor industry. It was one of the first materials used to make transistors and other electronic devices. Germanium has a high electron mobility, which means that it allows electrons to move quickly through it. This property makes it an excellent material for use in transistors, where fast switching speeds are required. In comparison to silicon, germanium has a higher electron mobility but a lower bandgap energy. This means that germanium can conduct electricity more efficiently than silicon at low temperatures but becomes less efficient...
Sweden
Sweden (Konungariket Sverige (Kingdom of Sweden)) Capital: Stockholm Population (Estimated July 2012): 9,103,788 Area: 450,295km2 or 173,860mi2 Currency: Swedish Krona (SEK) Official Language: Swedish Political Information: Constitutional Monarchy with Parliamentary Democracy Official Religion: No Official Religion (approximately 87% of the population is Lutheran and 13% have other religious beliefs) Highest Mountain: Kebnekaise Sydtopp at 2,104m or 6,903ft Largest River: Time Zone (GMT/UTC): +1:00 Wildlife: Counties/Provinces/States: 21 counties (lan, singular and plural); Blekinge, Dalarna, Gavleborg, Gotland, Halland, Jamtland, Jonkoping, Kalmar, Kronoberg, Norrbotten, Orebro, Ostergotland, Skane, Sodermanland, Stockholm, Uppsala, Varmland, Vasterbotten, Vasternorrland, Vastmanland, Vastra Gotaland Sweden Sweden, the largest country in Northern Europe, is characterised by its diverse geography, which ranges from vast forests and numerous lakes to rugged mountains and a long coastline. The country spans approximately 450,000 square kilometres, making it the third-largest country in Europe by area. Sweden is bordered by Norway to the west and Finland to the east, while the southern tip is connected to Denmark via the Øresund Bridge. The landscape is predominantly flat or gently rolling, with the Scandinavian Mountains running along the western border. This mountainous region is home to Sweden’s highest peak, Kebnekaise, which rises to 2,106 metres above sea level. The climate of Sweden varies significantly from north to south. The northern regions experience a subarctic climate, characterised by long, cold winters and short, mild summers. In contrast, southern Sweden enjoys a temperate maritime climate, with milder winters and warmer summers. The coastal areas are influenced by the Gulf Stream, which helps moderate temperatures. Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, although the northern parts receive more snow during winter...
Norway
Norway (Kongeriket Norge (Kingdom of Norway)) Capital: Oslo Population (Estimated July 2012): 4,707,270 Area: 385,179km2 or 148,718mi2 Currency: Norwegian Krone (Plural. Kroner; NOK) Official Language: Norwegian and Sami Political Information: Constitutional Monarchy and Parliamentary Democracy Official Religion: Evangelical Lutheran(approximately 85.7% of the population are Evangelical Lutheran (church of Norway), 4.4% have other Christian beliefs, 1.8% are Muslim and 8.1% have other religious beliefs) Highest Mountain: Galdhopiggen at 2,469m or 8,100ft Largest River: Time Zone (GMT/UTC): +1:00 Wildlife: Counties/Provinces/States: 19 counties (fylker, singular – fylke); Akershus, Aust-Agder, Buskerud, Finnmark, Hedmark, Hordaland, More og Romsdal, Nordland, Nord-Trondelag, Oppland, Oslo, Ostfold, Rogaland, Sogn og Fjordane, Sor-Trondelag, Telemark, Troms, Vest-Agder, Vestfold Additional: On the 7th of June 1905 Norway declared its union with Sweden dissolved which was agreed by Sweden on the 26th of October that year. Norway Norway, officially the Kingdom of Norway, is a Scandinavian country situated in Northern Europe. It is renowned for its striking natural landscapes, including fjords, mountains, and coastal regions. The nation is also notable for its rich history, vibrant culture, and robust economy. With a population exceeding 5 million, Norway is recognised for its high standard of living and comprehensive social welfare system. The capital city, Oslo, is a thriving metropolis with a rich cultural scene and a flourishing economy. Norway is also known for its strong maritime traditions and hosts one of the world’s largest shipping industries. With its unique combination of natural beauty, rich history, and modern amenities, Norway is a popular destination for tourists worldwide. Norway boasts a long and intriguing history dating back to the Viking Age. The country was unified as a single...
Finland
Finland (Suomen Tasavalta (Finnish); Republiken Finland (Swedish) (Republic of Finland)) Capital: Helsinki Population (Estimated July 2012): 5,262,930 Area Total: 338,424 km2 or 130,666 mi2 Currency: Euro (€) Official Language: Finnish or Swedish Political Information: Parliamentary Republic Official Religion: Lutheran Church of Finland (approximately 82.5% of the population are Lutheran, 2.3% have other religious beliefs and 15.1% have no religious beliefs) Highest Mountain: Haltiatunturi at 1,328m or 4,357ft Largest River: Time Zone (GMT/UTC): +2:00 Wildlife: Counties/Provinces/States: 19 regions (maakunnat, singular – maakunta (Finnish); landskapen, singular – landskapet (Swedish)); Aland (Swedish), Ahvenanmaa (Finnish); Etela-Karjala (Finnish), Sodra Karelen (Swedish) [South Karelia]; Etela-Pohjanmaa (Finnish), Sodra Osterbotten (Swedish) [South Ostrobothnia]; Etela-Savo (Finnish), Sodra Savolax (Swedish) [South Savo]; Kanta-Hame (Finnish), Egentliga Tavastland (Swedish); Kainuu (Finnish), Kajanaland (Swedish); Keski-Pohjanmaa (Finnish), Mellersta Osterbotten (Swedish) [Central Ostrobothnia]; Keski-Suomi (Finnish), Mellersta Finland (Swedish) [Central Finland]; Kymenlaakso (Finnish), Kymmenedalen (Swedish); Lappi (Finnish), Lappland (Swedish); Paijat-Hame (Finnish), Paijanne-Tavastland (Swedish); Pirkanmaa (Finnish), Birkaland (Swedish) [Tampere]; Pohjanmaa (Finnish), Osterbotten (Swedish) [Ostrobothnia]; Pohjois-Karjala (Finnish), Norra Karelen (Swedish) [North Karelia]; Pohjois-Pohjanmaa (Finnish), Norra Osterbotten (Swedish) [North Ostrobothnia]; Pohjois-Savo (Finnish), Norra Savolax (Swedish) [North Savo]; Satakunta (Finnish and Swedish); Uusimaa (Finnish), Nyland (Swedish) [Newland]; Varsinais-Suomi (Finnish), Egentliga Finland (Swedish) [Finland Proper] Additional: Independence from Russia on the 6th of December 1917. Finland Finland, officially known as the Republic of Finland, is a Nordic country located in Northern Europe. It shares its borders with Sweden to the west, Russia to the east, and Norway to the north, while Estonia lies to its south across the Gulf of Finland. The country is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including thousands of lakes, dense forests, and the iconic Northern Lights. With a population of around 5.5 million people,...
Discovering the Hidden Gems of Chernivtsi: A Journey Through the Heart of Ukraine
Chernivtsi, located in western Ukraine, is a city that is rich in history and culture. With its stunning architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and fascinating Jewish heritage, Chernivtsi is a must-visit destination for travelers. The city has a long and storied past, having been part of various empires and countries throughout its history. Today, it stands as a testament to the diverse influences that have shaped it over the years. Chernivtsi was founded in the 12th century and has since been ruled by the Moldavian Principality, the Ottoman Empire, the Habsburg Monarchy, Romania, and the Soviet Union. Each of these periods has left its mark on the city’s architecture and culture, creating a unique blend of styles and traditions. The most notable example of this is the Chernivtsi University, which was built in the late 19th century and is considered one of the finest examples of Secessionist architecture in Europe. In addition to its architectural marvels, Chernivtsi is also home to a vibrant cultural scene. The city boasts numerous museums, galleries, and theatres that showcase its rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the collections of the Chernivtsi Museum of Fine Arts, which houses works by Ukrainian and European artists, or catch a performance at the Chernivtsi Drama Theatre, one of the oldest theatres in Ukraine. With its rich history and vibrant cultural scene, Chernivtsi offers something for every traveler. Summary Chernivtsi is a city with a rich history and culture, making it a must-visit destination. The city’s architectural marvels, including landmarks like the Chernivtsi University and the City Hall, are worth exploring on foot. Chernivtsi’s museums, galleries, and theatres offer...
Exploring the Beauty and Rich Culture of Zimbabwe: A Journey Through Southern Africa
Zimbabwe, located in Southern Africa, is a country that is often overlooked by travelers. However, it is a hidden gem that offers a wealth of natural wonders, rich history and culture, vibrant city life, and unique experiences. With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and warm hospitality, Zimbabwe is truly a must-visit destination. Zimbabwe has a fascinating history that dates back thousands of years. It was once home to the ancient civilization of Great Zimbabwe, which left behind impressive ruins that are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The country has also seen its fair share of political and economic challenges in recent decades, but it has emerged as a resilient nation that is ready to welcome visitors with open arms. Summary Zimbabwe is a beautiful country located in Southern Africa. The natural wonders of Zimbabwe are breathtaking and worth exploring. Zimbabwe has a rich history and culture that is worth learning about. Harare is a vibrant city with a lot to offer visitors. Zimbabwe’s national parks offer a unique safari adventure. Discovering the Natural Wonders of Zimbabwe One of the most iconic natural wonders in Zimbabwe is Victoria Falls. Known as “The Smoke That Thunders,” Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and is shared by both Zimbabwe and Zambia. The sheer power and beauty of the falls are awe-inspiring, and visitors can experience them up close through various activities such as helicopter rides, bungee jumping, and white water rafting. Another must-visit destination for nature lovers is Hwange National Park. This park is home to the Big Five (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, and rhino)...
Exploring the Wonders of Zambia: A Journey Through the Heart of Africa
Located in southern Africa, Zambia is a landlocked country known as the “Jewel of Africa.” With its rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking landscapes, Zambia is a must-visit destination for travelers. The country is bordered by eight other countries, including Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, Angola, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Zambia has a fascinating history that dates back thousands of years. It was inhabited by hunter-gatherers and later became home to various Bantu-speaking tribes. In the late 19th century, Zambia was colonized by the British and was known as Northern Rhodesia. It gained independence in 1964 and changed its name to Zambia. Zambian culture is incredibly diverse, with over 70 ethnic groups living in the country. Each group has its own traditions, languages, and customs. The Zambian people are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature, making visitors feel right at home. Summary Zambia is known as the Jewel of Africa, with its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife. A wildlife safari in Zambia offers the chance to encounter the Big Five and other rare species. Victoria Falls is a must-see natural wonder of the world, with its breathtaking views and thrilling activities. The Zambezi River is a journey through the heart of Zambia, offering opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Lusaka, the capital city of Zambia, is a vibrant hub of culture, history and modern development. Wildlife Safari: A Thrilling Encounter with the Big Five One of the main reasons why Zambia is a must-visit destination is its incredible wildlife. The country is home to numerous national parks and game reserves that offer thrilling...
Exploring the Historic City of Chernihiv: A Journey Through Time
Chernihiv, located in northern Ukraine, is a city rich in cultural heritage and history. With its ancient streets, magnificent architecture, and fascinating history, Chernihiv offers visitors a unique and immersive experience. From its iconic landmarks to its artistic treasures, there is something for everyone to discover in this charming city. In this article, we will explore the rich cultural heritage of Chernihiv and all that it has to offer. Summary Chernihiv boasts a rich cultural heritage waiting to be discovered. Walking through the ancient streets of Chernihiv is like taking a step back in time. The magnificent architecture of Chernihiv is a sight to behold. Uncovering the fascinating history of Chernihiv is a must for any history buff. Visiting the iconic landmarks of Chernihiv is a great way to experience the city’s unique charm. Discovering the Rich Cultural Heritage of Chernihiv Chernihiv has a long and storied history, dating back to the 9th century. It was once the capital of the Chernihiv Principality and played a significant role in the development of Ukrainian culture and identity. The city’s historical significance is evident in its numerous architectural landmarks and cultural institutions. Chernihiv is also known for its contributions to Ukrainian literature and art. Many famous writers and artists have hailed from Chernihiv or found inspiration in its rich cultural heritage. The city has been a muse for countless poets, painters, and musicians throughout history. Walking Through the Ancient Streets of Chernihiv One of the highlights of visiting Chernihiv is exploring its old town. The ancient streets are filled with charm and character, transporting visitors back in time. Walking through these...
The Crisis in Yemen: A Call for International Aid and Support
The ongoing conflict in Yemen has been described as one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. The conflict, which began in 2014, has resulted in widespread violence, displacement, and a severe lack of basic necessities for the Yemeni people. This article will provide an in-depth analysis of the crisis, its impact on Yemeni civilians, the urgent need for international aid and support, the role of the international community in ending the crisis, the challenges of delivering aid in Yemen, the importance of addressing the root causes of the crisis, the impact on Yemen’s economy and infrastructure, the role of NGOs in providing aid and support, the impact on Yemeni children and women, and the need for a long-term solution to the crisis. Summary Ongoing conflict in Yemen has led to a humanitarian crisis. Yemeni civilians are suffering greatly due to the crisis. International aid and support is urgently needed to alleviate the crisis. The international community must play a role in ending the crisis. Delivering aid in Yemen is challenging due to the conflict. The ongoing conflict in Yemen: a humanitarian crisis The conflict in Yemen began in 2014 when Houthi rebels took control of the capital city, Sana’a, and forced President Abdrabbuh Mansur Hadi to flee to Saudi Arabia. In response, a coalition led by Saudi Arabia launched a military intervention to restore Hadi’s government. Since then, the conflict has escalated into a full-blown civil war, with multiple factions vying for control of different parts of the country. The impact of this conflict on Yemeni civilians has been devastating. According to the United Nations, more than 24 million...