Using our natural resources responsibly

Instrumenting the Earth for energy development

Global population growth and changing lifestyles are increasing the demand for energy, water and raw materials. Political and economic instability can make things worse, creating price volatility, shortages and conflict. BGS will continue to research resource security, evaluation and extraction whether it be groundwater or shale gas. We will also research energy storage and geological disposal, for example of radioactive waste and CO2. In the long run, BGS science aims to ensure that we get the most out of our resources without harming the environment.

Sea energy, © Getty images Energy

Carbon capture & storage, seismic imaging, reservoir geoscience, oil & gas, renewables & clean coal.

Digital mapping in the field Geology and regional geophysics

Multidisciplinary surveys, research into the surface and subsurface, 3D models...

Flooding Groundwater

Groundwater resources, quality, modelling, flooding, drought, aquifer monitoring...

Offshore exploration Marine

mapping, habitats, basin analysis, resources, hydrocarbon prospectivity, ocean drilling & geohazards...

Mineral exploration Minerals and waste

Statistics, policy analysis, international development, metallogenesis & security of supply...