Geo data and IT

Enhancing the information chain

Our expertise extends across the entire information chain, which is unique in our field. We cover everything from collecting and enriching information to making data available. For example, we describe subsurface core samples in our own borehole sample description space. We also digitise research data, interpret those data, and ensure that they’re accessible in portals.

Core storage for subsurface samples

We have a Central Core Storage facility, where we store subsurface core samples. A large collection of soil and rock samples – collected at sea and on land over more than 100 years – is stored in the facility. It’s a unique archive of the subsurface. The Central Core Storage is a very valuable facility that may also be used by other stakeholders.

Defining the Dutch subsurface

We also focus on data storage, data processing, and quality control. These activities are part of our statutory responsibilities, as established in the Dutch Mining Act and Key Register of the Subsurface Act. The Acts concern data from the Dutch subsurface. This includes the Dutch portion of the continental shelf (North Sea) and the Dutch Caribbean territory.

Making extensive data sets accessible

We provide data management solutions in the geology domain, using innovative IT tools and software development. We ensure that subsurface data is accessible, for example through the well-known portals that we manage: BROloket, DINOloket, and NLOG. Our data work forms the basis of everything related to geology, both inside and outside our organisation.

Our areas of innovation

We also play a key role in the development and management of another unique resource: the Dutch Key Register of the Subsurface (BRO). The BRO is an open, governmental database of standardised information about the Dutch subsurface. Furthermore, we ensure that the 3-D GeoTOP model is available in our portals. This model displays the subsurface up to a maximum of 50 metres below Dutch Ordnance Datum (NAP) in voxels. Our international R&D specifically focuses on the European GeoERA research programme, which aims to establish a European Geological Survey.

Ready to answer your questions

Our enthusiastic team ensures that, with the help of modern IT solutions, subsurface information is available in every possible way. This information provides the foundation for answering questions about urban development, climate adaptation, sustainable energy, geothermal energy, subsidence, raw material policies, groundwater, area development, the construction of infrastructure (including large infrastructure), and much more.