The Geological Survey of Finland strengthening its role as a key player in mineral raw materials innovation ecosystems

The Geological Survey of Finland (GTK) has over 130 years of history inmapping and studying mineral resources and their sustainable use. This hasresulted in a globally top-ranking geodatabase and profound knowledge ofFinnish geology and mineral resources, and has had a crucial impact on thecontinuously developing mining and exploration business in Finland. Thebasic mandate of the GTK has remained the same, but the strategic focus andmode of operation have changed considerably to meet new demands. Today, theGTK plays a vital role in providing geoscientific expertise and specialistservices for a wide range of stakeholders and commercial clients ingovernment, the business sector, academia and the wider community, inFinland and internationally. The GTK is actively building new ways toco-operate with universities, research organizations and companies tosupport future development and to expand its own expertise. This is furthersupported by the proactive use of cutting-edge technologies, such as thegeomaterials research infrastructure, which allows studies from thenanoscale up to kilotons for diverse applications of mineral materials. TheGTK plans to further strengthen its role as a key player in the mineralssector innovation ecosystems with a focus on primary minerals, the circulareconomy, digital solutions and water issues, which are expected to beessential factors for sustainable development through the 2020s and beyond.The GTK's main challenge is to ensure the continuous enhancement and renewalof expertise, to adapt and respond to future opportunities.