British Geological Survey

The British Geological Survey (BGS) is a world-leading independent research organization that provides objective, expert geoscientific data, information, and knowledge. BGS has developed a new model for simulating groundwater resources at a national scale across England, Scotland, and Wales. They have been awarded the NERC-Arctic grant for a collaborative project with the Iceland GeoSurvey to support offshore wind development in Iceland. Additionally, BGS completed its largest CT core scan project, imaging around 400 meters of core for the IODP Drowned Reefs project. They have also released the first digital version of the UK legacy geothermal catalogue, which includes subsurface temperature measurements, rock thermal conductivity measurements, and heat flow calculations. BGS signed a memorandum of understanding with Serviço Geológico do Brasil to advance shared interests in mineral research and geoscience. As part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and a research center under the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), BGS has an annual turnover of approximately £55 million, with about 50% coming from UKRI-NERC’s National Capability funding. BGS operates state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities that support its research and offers a range of services for businesses, homeowners, policymakers, and the general public. Their science strategy for 2023 to 2028 focuses on decarbonization and resource management, environmental change, adaptation and resilience, and multi-hazards and resilience. BGS manages over 400 datasets, including environmental monitoring data, digital databases, physical collections, records, and archives. The National Geoscience Data Centre collects and preserves geoscientific data, making it accessible to various users and communities. BGS’s OpenGeoscience service allows users to view maps, download data, scans, photos, and other information for free. Their research encompasses core geological survey and monitoring work, as well as innovative projects addressing contemporary geoscientific challenges.