About the British Geological Survey

Founded in 1835, the British Geological Survey (BGS) is the world's oldest national geological survey and the United Kingdom's premier centre for earth science information and expertise.



The BGS provides expert services and impartial advice in all areas of geoscience. Our client base is drawn from the public and private sectors both in the UK and internationally.


Digital geological map extract What is the BGS?

Who we are?
What do we do?
Our Past: a short history of the BGS.


Statue of Hercules at BGS Keyworth The structure of the BGS

Structure, organisation and management team.
BGS Board: function and members.


Open book Polices and procedures

Accreditations, environmental policy, intellectual property rights — copyright,
feedback, freedom of information.


Cover of BGS Annual Report BGS Corporate Reports

Annual Report: research highlights and strategy.
Economic benefits: learn how 'BGS can carry out work that would be impossible for other organisations.'
Science audit: learn how the 'NERC gets excellent value for its investment in the BGS'


BGS records Intellectual property — copyright

How to apply for a copyright or digital data licence.
How to acknowledge our material.
Non-commercial use.