Land use can impact groundwater. Understanding the geology and hydrological characteristics of a site are important when making decisions that may impact groundwater.  Poor management can lead to irreparable damage of groundwater reserves, which can in turn affect the environment and biodiversity aboveground. The management of groundwater is an interdisciplinary field that incorporates aspects from geology, geomorphology, hydrogeology and economics amongst others.

Knowing the geology of an area informs us about mining operations. It can help us determine not only what products might be extracted but also where and how they should be extracted, and what measures should be undertaken in order to alleviate risks in the process. The mining process from a geological perspective encompasses all aspects and phases of the mining process from initial prospecting to mine rehabilitation. 

The geology of an area impacts what can be built on the area. If ground is not stable, engineered construction (e.g. pipelines, buildings, roads, bridges) which are built over them, are at risk. The field of applying geological methodology to engineering is termed as engineering geology. Engineering geology is the application of geological data, principles and techniques to the study of engineering. The purpose being to assure that geological factors regarding location, planning, design, construction, operation and maintenance of fixed works are recognised and accounted for in all engineering phases and aspects. The sub-discipline provides geological and geotechnical recommendations, analysis and design associated with anthropogenic development and man-made structures. The sub-discipline works on the premise that any activity, construction or extraction relating to a geological formation will result in some form of change and this needs to be accounted for.