Our research projects

BGS Research

As the national geological survey, we are the UK’s premier provider of objective and authoritative scientific data, information and knowledge to help society understand our Earth. Working with our partners, we will contribute to economic growth and tackle some of the most challenging environmental and societal problems.

Explore our research projects

Geothermal_feature_Kenya_powerplant
Energy

Geothermal energy

Geothermal Energy is all energy stored in the form of heat beneath the surface of the solid earth. It is a reliable and constant source of low-carbon, renewable heat that is not dependent on weather conditions.

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Aerial view of Oxford in flood
Hydrogeology

Groundwater level forecasting

BGS deliver probabilistic forecasts of groundwater levels across the UK’s principal aquifers to provide a range of services that build national resilience to groundwater extremes.

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A view across the Marram and Sea-lyme sand dunes at Formby Point towards the shore line where the sea laps gently on the yellow sandy beach. Photograph © National Trust
Geology

The impacts of rising groundwater at the coast

Our current activities build on the BGS’s extensive research experience in this region, contributing to welfare and future economic growth by the responsible use of natural resources.

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Limestone pavement, Cumbria

Sinkholes and karst research

Our research extends beyond the distribution and processes associated with sinkhole formation to the broader subject of karst.

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BGS 3D Modelling

3D geology resources

3D geological models characterise the structure of the rocks and sediments in the subsurface, providing sophisticated tools for enhanced geological understanding.

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Finnieston-Bridge-Glasgow_feature
Built environment

Glasgow and the Clyde Basin — Clyde Urban Super Project (CUSP)

Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, is built along the  upper Clyde estuary and lower River Clyde. Areas of central Glasgow form the national urban regeneration priority for Scotland over the next 25 years.

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National Geological Screening
Geology

Regional geological summaries

BGS have produced 13 summaries of the on-shore regional geology for England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

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Li-brine_SQM-Atacama,-Chile_feature
Mining and minerals

Critical raw materials

All minerals and metals used in manufacturing, including recycled material, have ultimately been mined from the Earth’s crust.

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Pollution_aspect_lake_feature
Environmental change

Geochemistry and health

We are working with Kenyan researchers to improve our understanding of the links between environment and health, strengthening our combined research.

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About BGS

As the national geological survey, we are the UK’s premier provider of objective and authoritative scientific data, information and knowledge to help society understand our Earth.

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BGS Data - iStock.com

Data

The BGS is a data-rich organisation with over 400 datasets in its care.

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Aurora Borealis by Stein Egil Liland

Research

Our research includes core geological survey and monitoring work and other innovative projects addressing today’s geoscientific challenges driven by the changing needs of our stakeholders.

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BGS core store

Our facilities

The BGS offers a range of services and information for businesses, home-owners, policy-makers and the general public.

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