Europe’s Strategic Priorities Highlight the Need for Greater Investment in Geological Knowledge

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September 15, 2026

Europe’s growing ambitions in critical raw materials, clean energy, CO₂ storage, water security and climate resilience are increasing the need for investment in geoscientific research and geological knowledge. Around 100 representatives of European institutions, industry, research organisations and national geological surveys met in Brussels to discuss priorities for future geoscientific research.


The workshop was organised by EuroGeoSurveys within the GSEU project and brought together representatives from different sectors to identify areas where Europe needs to strengthen geoscientific research and innovation. The discussions focused on how geological knowledge and research can support Europe’s strategic priorities and respond to emerging societal and environmental challenges.

Key areas addressed included critical raw materials, clean energy, CO₂ storage, water security and climate resilience. Bringing together perspectives from public institutions, industry, research organisations and geological surveys provided an opportunity to identify common priorities and areas requiring further research and innovation.

The outcomes of the workshop will contribute to the update of the EuroGeoSurveys Strategic Research & Innovation Agenda (SRIA). An event summary has also been published, presenting the main points and priorities that emerged from the discussions.

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