Society relies on vast quantities of rocks, minerals and metals for constructing homes and roads, for transportation, for manufacturing tools and goods, and for the production of modern technologies and solutions for renewable energy. Norway is endowed with abundant geological resources and plays a significant role in the supply important raw materials.
Geological resources encompass a wide variety of natural resources. At the Geological Survey of Norway (NGU), we typically categorize resources into metals such as iron and copper, and industrial minerals like quartz and limestone. Crushed rock and gravel are termed construction aggregates while building stone is referred to as a natural stone.
But geological resources are not just about rocks and minerals, and geothermal heat and groundwater are also geological resources. More immaterial values are represented by particularly beautiful or informative geological sites. These are our geological heritage.
NGU conducts mapping and research to constrain the resource potential and to identify geological resources across the nation. The purpose of this work is to support value creation through industrial development, and effective management of the environment and resources. Currently, NGU prioritizes the mapping critical raw materials.
Mineral Resources
Mineral resources include rocks, minerals, and metals that can be extracted from mines, quarries, and sand and gravel pits. We all depend on mineral resources in our everyday lives, and a range of minerals and metals are essential for the development of zero-emission technologies and green industry.
Economically important minerals and metals that are exposed to supply risks, are considered critical raw materials.
