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
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.
Groundwater research
Addressing issues related to the sustainability of water resources and quality, and the effects of environmental change on the water cycle, natural hazards, and human health.
Africa Groundwater Atlas
The Africa Groundwater Atlas is an online resource providing an introduction to the groundwater resources of 51 African countries, and a gateway to further information.
Geodesy and Earth observation
Developing and using innovative Earth observation techniques to characterise and monitor Earth processes that affect lives and livelihoods.
Sustainable drainage systems
Sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) are drainage solutions that provide an alternative to the direct channelling of surface water through networks of pipes and sewers to nearby watercourses.
International catchment observatories
The BGS is currently setting up a pilot-scale observatory to serve Hanoi, Vietnam, in the context of hazards and resilience to those hazards.
Glacier monitoring
The BGS uses cutting-edge technology in Iceland to monitor how glaciers and their surrounding landscape change over time, and how they respond to climate.
UK Geoenergy Observatories
Facilitating a step change in our understanding of geology and our relationship with the underground environment.
Our core challenge areas
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