Geological Survey and Applied Geoscience

[ Overview ]

In order to develop a sustainable and stable energy cycle required for a sustainable society and to contribute to the safe living environment through the use and protection of the geo-environment, and to contribute to the secure supply of natural resources which form the basis of the industrial activities and life in society, we are engaged in surveys and research on geological disposal of nuclear wastes, CO₂ geological sequestration, soil pollution, rare metal resources, and groundwater resources. In addition, we are constructing and disseminating an intellectual infrastructure of information based on geological surveys, which forms the foundation of this research.

[ Overview ]

We are characterizing the geology of Japan and its surrounding sea through comprehensive basic geoscientific research, developing a knowledge base in the form of geological maps, and providing geological information required to mitigate geological hazards and protect the environment in the coastal regions and volcanic areas, and to facilitate the utilization of the deep geo-environment. We are also working to improve techniques for the analysis of geological information, and conducting research to develop and integrate geological information, including in the Asian region, while promoting the innovative use of such information, in order to meet the needs of society.

[ Overview ]

In and around the Japan arc, many earthquakes occur due to rupture of active faults and subduction plate boundaries. We are investigating rupture events of active faults and plate-boundaries that have occurred over the past few thousand years and estimating the intervals and magnitudes of earthquakes based on topographic and geologic surveys. We are also conducting research on the simulation-based prediction of earthquakes using geophysical models and the detection of precursors of the Tokai, Tonankai, and Nankai earthquakes based on observations of groundwater and crustal movements.

[ Overview ]

We provide reliable and impartial geoinfomation for the public in close coordination with the geoscience research divisions. We develop geoscientific data infrastructure and promote the geological standardization in order to meet greater needs in Japan. We register the metadata of geological publications and build bibliographic database. Integrated database of geoinfomation and satellite images is another major task of us for interoperable data dissemination through the web.

[ Overview ]

We are managing, registering and archiving a large number of geologic specimens which are collected through the investigation and research of the Geological Survey of Japan, AIST. We are supporting the use of these geologic specimens for research, education and others, and supporting geologic researches by making thin sections of rock specimens. While cooperating with the related research units, we are disseminating the geological information by improvement of the display of the Geological Museum, planning and administration of various events as special exhibitions, special lectures, experience study events, geological consultation. In addition, we are promoting outreach activities out of the museum, such as the geopark, the geological information exhibition, and others.