The rationale behind the design of our IESO 2009 logo is to use the different symbols to represent the various areas in the field of Earth Science. For instance, radio telescope represents astronomy, fault formed by tectonic movements, and seismic waves represent Geology, ocean and Kuroshio current represent Oceanology and the red rotation is a symbol of a typhoon which represents Atmosphere.

Taiwan is situated in a very unique geographical location which is constantly under the influence of the interaction between Kuroshio current, typhoons and earthquakes. Sitting in an area of seismic belt, the convergence between the Eurasian Plate and the Philippine Sea Plate, Taiwan is in one of the most earthquake-prone areas in the world. An example of the most catastrophic earthquake that ever struck Taiwan would be the Chichi Earthquake which occurred on September 21, 1999 with a magnitude of 7.3. It is marked as the largest as well as the most disastrous earthquake in Taiwan’s recent history. Taiwan’s hosting of the Third International Earth Science Olympiad in 2009 coincides with the 10th anniversary of the 921 Chichi Earthquake. This not only symbolizes the interdependence and mutual support of mankind to overcome the forces of nature when confronted with natural calamities but also remark on the interaction between the environment and humankind.