BGS signs memorandum of understanding with Serviço Geológico do Brasil

In March 2024, BGS and Serviço Geológico do Brasil (SGB) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The signing took place at the 2024 Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada Convention in Toronto, Canada — the world’s premier mineral exploration and mining conference.

BGS is proud to forge this partnership with the Serviço Geológico do Brasil. The signing will help strengthen our collaboration as we explore our shared interest in strategic mineral research and geoscience to build resilience for the benefit of society.

Dr David Schofield, BGS Director of National and International Geoscience.

The MoU recognises both organisations’ strong alignment of values and shared interest in developing geoscience for society, including collaborating on global research around critical minerals for a low-carbon economy.

The signing follows successful discussions during 2023, when BGS and SGB geologists met to discuss topics of mutual interest and undertake fieldwork in Brazil.

This is a historical moment in which two institutions, leaders in geoscientific research, are joining forces. The partnership represents the strengthening of the bilateral relationship between Brazil and the United Kingdom for the development of innovative solutions based on scientific evidence. The result of our actions will benefit not only our countries, but the world.

Valdir Silveria, Serviço Geológico do Brasil’s Director of Geology and Mineral Resources.

Following the signing of the MoU, BGS met with stakeholders in Brazil. The organisations explored potential opportunities for collaborative working, contributing to better understanding of how geoscience can benefit societies and environments and support the responsible development of critical minerals.

The first of these meetings was held on March 13, with BGS, SGB and the British Consulate in Belo Horizonte hosting a workshop on lithium and development supported by the UK Government Science and Innovation Network.

The event brought together 104 people, including government authorities, company leaders, academics and development agencies connected to the mining sector.
In the morning, the event featured presentations by partners from the Ministry of Mines and Energy, the British Geological Survey, the Brazilian Geological Survey, the Minas Gerais Economic Development Secretariat, InvestMinas, UFMG, Lithium Ionic, Sigma Lithium, Green Lithium and Porto do Açu. During the afternoon the workshop, guided by the SGB, was a space for open and interactive dialogue.

From discussions on extraction technology to investment strategies, the partners explored in detail how geoscience, research and collaboration between government, industry and society can contribute to the responsible development of the region, as well as debating the full potential for sustainable and social growth.