Extractive industries
BGS Climate Change Products
In line with carbon net zero objectives, there has been a shift in the extractive industry sector away from fossil fuels. With this comes the need to decommission or potentially repurpose old workings, as outlined in UK Offshore Energies Association 2021 decommissioning insight report. BGS is well placed to provide baseline data and information about how climate change may affect associated risks, for example subsidence or groundwater contamination.
With the switch from fossil fuels comes new opportunities. For example, demand for elements used in battery production is rapidly increasing and, with new sources of lithium being found in the UK, BGS can support the industry with baseline geochemical, geophysical and borehole data.
Relevant BGS data products
BGS Civils: strength
This theme provides information on zones of rock strength and the local factors controlling it, as part of a suite of GIS layers for different engineering parameters.
Groundwater vulnerability data
Our groundwater vulnerability maps provide an assessment of the vulnerability of groundwater in overlying superficial rocks and those that comprise the underlying bedrock.
Hydrogeological maps of Scotland
The BGS has produced a suite of hydrogeological maps of Scotland. The suite includes layers with groundwater vulnerability and aquifer productivity data.
Mining hazard (not including coal) coverage
The mining hazard dataset provides essential information for planners and developers building in areas of former shallow underground mine workings.
Get in touch
We would love to hear from you! For more information or to send us your feedback about our digital data products, please email the digital data team.
Climate challenges and BGS support by sector
Extractive industries
Aimed at stakeholders involved in quarrying, mining and excavation of natural resources.
Insurance lenders
Targeted at stakeholders concerned with the changing financial risks to property and asset portfolios as a result of geohazard activity.
Planning and construction
Encompassing all stakeholders involved in the development and maintenance of the built environment, from planning applications to construction projects.
Soil and agriculture
For stakeholders with an interest in soil composition, health and productivity.
Water management
Aimed at stakeholders concerned with future changes to the quality and quantity of freshwater resources.