Overview
The Geological Survey of Sweden (SGU) is a government expert agency dedicated to providing geological information to meet society’s short and long-term needs. As a leader in the sustainable use of Sweden’s mineral resources, the agency provides comprehensive data on bedrock, rock quality, soil types, geochemistry, and geophysics.
Mission and focus areas
The agency’s primary focus is to guide the sustainable use of soil, rock, and groundwater in a changing world. SGU maps and documents Sweden’s geology to support various sectors, including mineral exploration, carbon dioxide storage research, and the management of strategic and critical raw materials.
Structure and governance
SGU is an expert agency under the Swedish government. It oversees specialized units such as the Mining Inspectorate (Bergsstaten), which is responsible for issuing permits for exploration and mining, and maintains the National Drill Core collection.
Programs and offerings
SGU offers a wide range of services including map viewers, geological data via API and Web Map Services, and the operation of survey vessels like the Ocean Surveyor for seabed research. The agency also manages research efforts, such as investigating soil contamination treatments and identifying locations for carbon dioxide storage, and publishes the biannual Exploration Newsletter.
