Scientific sessions

Extractive industries, i.e. mining and quarrying, typically won’t utilize all the material extracted from the ground in the operations. Depending on the type of the operation, as much as over 90 % of the material may end up being rejected as mineral waste. In fact, mineral wastes are the largest waste stream in Finland, comprising nearly 75 % of all waste. It has been estimated that around 13 billion tons of mineral processing tailings are generated annually. Employing the waste rock/tailings ratio of metal mines in Finland, this would correspond to approximately 25 billion tons of waste rock also being generated each year. Because a major part of these wastes is stored in waste facilities at mine sites, the wastes comprise roughly half of the spatial footprint of mining operations. Considerable efforts are clearly required to mitigate the mining waste issue, especially with the expected increase in non-fossil fuel mining with the energy transition. We need to find ways to utilize more of the material that is now ending up as waste in mining and quarrying operations. This involves designing mining projects to incorporate circular practices, leveraging data flows and new technologies, developing new innovative mineral products and ways of using minerals, advancing our capabilities in separating mineral fractions and metals suitable for various uses, developing deposit and geometallurgical models that facilitate circular practices etc. This session welcomes contributions on all types of research and innovations to advance circularity in the minerals sector.

Organisers: Tommi Kauppila (GTK), Tero Niiranen (GTK), Raul Mollehuara Canales (Uni. Oulu), Priyadharshini Perumal (Uni. Oulu), Sami Virolainen (LUT), Päivi Kauppila (GTK)

Applied geochemistry plays a vital role in the exploration of critical raw materials, advancing the circular economy, and addressing environmental challenges. This session encompasses a broad spectrum of topics within applied geochemistry, supporting the global transition toward sustainable solutions.

Topics include exploration geochemistry, till geochemistry, biogeochemistry, the geochemistry of secondary raw material deposits, and urban geochemistry, with a particular focus on the Nordic region. Contributions may also explore the application of advanced analytical methods such as multivariate data analysis, compositional data analysis, machine learning, and geochemical data modelling.

Surficial geochemical sampling and analytical methods are important factors in mineral exploration in the areas of different transported cover, particularly in the glaciated terrains. New methodological development both in field and sampling techniques as well as in laboratory analysis methods have given new possibilities to increase a number of materials usable in exploration. The session welcomes novel approaches to these sampling and analytical protocols, both in the laboratory and the field. Presentations on innovative solutions for the collection, management, sharing, and visualization of geochemical data are particularly encouraged.

Submissions on other groundbreaking topics within applied geochemistry are also highly appreciated. This session aims to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and showcase transformative approaches that are shaping the future of geochemical exploration and applied geochemistry.

Organisers: Pertti Sarala (Uni. Oulu), Sari Romppanen (GTK), Belinda Flem (NGU), Maarit Middleton (GTK)

Biogeochemical cycles have significantly impacted the distribution of elements in Earth surface systems over geological time. Moreover, modern cycling of carbon, nutrients and associated elements are strongly impacted by human activities. Many key processes in low temperature geochemistry are influenced by the availability of oxidized and reduced compounds that can act as electron donors or acceptors in chemical reactions or in microbial metabolism. The traces of these interactions can be found in modern environments, as well as throughout the geological record. Such systems include soils, sediments, groundwater, freshwater, and marine environments, where microbial activity and abiotic reactions influence the transformation and mobility of nutrients, metals, and contaminants.

This session will focus on the geochemical and biogeochemical processes occurring at low temperatures in Earth’s surface and near-surface environments. We invite contributions that address biogeochemical processes in both terrestrial and marine systems and the impact of these interactions on both modern and ancient elemental cycles. Especially, interdisciplinary approaches in biogeochemistry and geomicrobiology, including field and laboratory studies, isotope analyses, spectroscopical and microscopical studies, are encouraged.

Organisers: Ville Nenonen (Uni. Helsinki), Lotta Purkamo (GTK), Tom Jilbert (Uni. Helsinki)

Mineral deposits provide essential raw materials for modern society and increasingly supply vital components for the development of renewable energy and other green technologies. Today, numerous more uncommon and non-traditional metals and other mineral raw materials have come into rapidly increasing global demand due to their core roles in green technologies such as wind power generation, photovoltaics and electric vehicles, besides overall broad applications including general electrification and digitalisation. Based on present EU classifications of critical raw materials and known resources, highlights among Nordic CRMs include cobalt, graphite, lithium, niobium, phosphorus, platinum-group metals, rare earth elements, titanium and vanadium.

This session will focus on, but is not limited to, CRM metallogeny and mineral systems in Fennoscandia and Greenland. We welcome contributions from all aspects of CRM deposit research and related topics, including their ore-forming processes from local to mineral systems scale, exploration, mineralogy and geometallurgy.

Organisers: Erik Jonsson (SGU), Terje Bjerkgård (NGU), Bjarni Gautason (ÍSOR), Håvard Gautneb (NGU), Jakob Keiding (GEUS), Þorvaldur Þórðarson (Uni. Iceland), Tuomo Törmänen (GTK)

Within the world in change, many challenges face us from global to local level. Climate change, green energy transition and geopolitical tensions have turned critical raw materials (CRM) and their production into focus of public debate, interests and policy making. The mining sector faces pressure towards improved performance in environmental, social and governance performance (ESG) from all stakeholders, including investors. Geopolitical factors, social license, and environmental and social risks have been recognised amongst the key challenges that could delay or even hamper new mining projects. Even that mineral raw materials are very much needed for the current societal change, there is a public questioning over the justification of their production and use. This calls for responsible corporate conduct to mitigate social and environmental impacts of mining and mineral exploration to improve the social license to operate (SLO) of the sector.

Within this context, the Nordic Geological Winter Meeting (NGWM) organizes a special session dedicated to ESG and SLO topics. Therefore, NGWM welcome contributions covering ESG, SLO, governance/policy, and geopolitics related to mining and mineral exploration, but not restricted to them. Other geoscience-related fields facing the same challenges are also invited to propose topics to be presented and to contribute for understanding of common challenges. We encourage scholars from various disciplines to submit their work to this session to participate in a joint cross-disciplinary discussion and interchange of experiences, ideas, and solutions for ESG and SLO challenges.

Organisers: Mari Kivinen (GTK), Toni Eerola (GTK)

The growing demand for and access to raw materials has led to increased attention not only on the mining of primary raw materials but also on resource recovery from extractive and other anthropogenic waste and side streams. This is reflected, for example, in the EU’s Raw Materials Act, which recognizes the importance of utilizing anthropogenic waste to ensure raw materials security and sustainable development. In this context, the CRM Act, article 27, pushes for the exploration of extractive waste sites. For extractive waste utilization projects to become economically viable, there is a need for innovative methods for resource assessment and extraction that reduce environmental impact. This session will explore the latest research and advancements in the field of potentiality and use of extractive waste and other anthropogenic waste.

We welcome presentations on a variety of topics related to secondary raw materials, including resource potential assessment, innovative extraction and recovery techniques, economic viability, and environmental solutions and impacts. Contributions that highlight case studies, technological innovations, and interdisciplinary approaches are particularly encouraged. The objective of the session is to showcase the challenges and opportunities in transforming extractive waste and side streams into valuable resources and to share insights on how these practices can contribute to a more sustainable future. The session is organized by the Horizon Europe funded project FutuRaM.

Organisers: Teemu Karlsson (GTK), Ronald Arvidsson (SGU), Janne Hokka (GTK)

The Precambrian Fennoscandian domain extends offshore under the Baltic Sea and is concealed by Phanerozoic sediments in the Baltic region. While the exposed shield in Sweden and Finland is well studied, research in its buried extensions – covering the Baltic States, Poland, and beyond – rely primarily on geophysical surveys and deep drilling.

Pioneering research by Bogdanova, Gorbatschev, Sundblad, and Kähkönen has demonstrated correlations between crustal units in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania and those in the exposed shield. Mineral-rich structures from Sweden’s Bergslagen and Finland’s Uusimaa metallogenic belts may extend into the Baltic Sea region and farther south. Yet, the economic potential of these occurrences remains largely unknown despite the growing strategic importance of the EU’s raw material security. Deep geothermal energy has also become an important focus, and several deep thermal wells have been drilled into Precambrian basement. After more than three decades of standstill since the collapse of the Soviet Union, research of the sediment-covered Fennoscandian shield is picking up the pace again.

This session welcomes contributions on Precambrian basement geology, geophysical and geochemical studies, mineral exploration, geothermal energy, and regional geological correlations, with a focus on the concealed regions of the Baltic States and neighboring areas. Integrating historical and modern datasets will refine our understanding of the buried Fennoscandian structures, their metallogeny, and geothermal potential – offering valuable insight for both scientific advancement and economic resource development on both sides of the Baltic Sea.

Organisers: Johannes Vind (Geological Survey of Estonia), Kairi Põldsaar (Uni. Tartu)

It is increasingly recognized that geothermal systems, biological activity, and ore deposits are intrinsically interconnected. Understanding the movement of fluids through crystalline rocks, along with the associated fluid-rock-biology interactions, is crucial for unlocking the economic potential of geo-resources in volcanic and crystalline areas.  This broad session will examine the interactions between fluids, biological activity, and crystalline rocks, with a focus on the processes driving fluid-rock reactions and their implications for geo-resources. We particularly encourage contributions that highlight experimental, field-based, modeling approaches, geophysical mapping, and drilling techniques used to identify resources in ancient and modern igneous systems, as well as crystalline cratons.

Topics:

• Geothermal energy in volcanic settings and crystalline bedrock
• Permanent CO₂ sequestration through carbon mineralization in mafic-ultramafic rocks
• Exploration of critical elements from geothermal brines (hydrogen, helium, lithium)
• Ore deposit in igneous rifts, volcanic basins, and crystalline areas
• Hydrocarbon generation, migration, and accumulations in crystalline rocks
• Fresh-water reservoirs and hydrogeology
• Deep biosphere and its impact on geo-resources
• Hydrothermal and supercritical fluids
• Formation of crystalline reservoirs
• Geophysical exploration methods of crystalline reservoirs and deposits
• Scientific and commercial drilling in volcanic and crystalline terrains

Cross-disciplinary approaches integrating geoenergy technologies and ore deposits are highly encouraged. These topics are crucial for advancing our understanding of the geological frameworks of crystalline and volcanic regions, particularly in Fennoscandia, Greenland, and the NE Atlantic regions.

Organisers: Alan Bischoff (Uni. Turku), Sverre Planke (VBER), Riikka Kietäväinen (Uni. Helsinki), Steffi Burchardt (Uppsala Uni.)

Landslides and floods (river and coastal) impact every year the Nordic countries, often with very adverse consequences related to large damage to houses and infrastructure and sometimes loss of life. Society is trying to adapt to prevent loss events. However, there is a causal chain from changing climate over water availability / slope instability that is often not easy to recognize over the landslide / flood process themself to the impact on society. This can be direct or indirect or as cascading disasters through trigger event, the direct impact of the occurrence over to secondary effects such as lake outburst floods, displacement waves. Cascading disasters often outnumber the direct impact of self-standing events. With this year’s session we want a special focus on the challenges of recognizing changes in landslide/ flood occurrence related to climate change being related to either temperature warming or change in precipitation patterns or a combination of both. Important aspect of this topic is how society can prepare in advance to that climate change in order that larger consequences can be mitigated. This session is also open to all geohazard related topics including storms, floods, earthquakes and volcanic activity.

Organisers: Þorsteinn Sæmundsson (Uni. Iceland), Reginald Hermanns (NGU), Jacob Bendle (NGU)

This session is intended to bring together geoscientists from a broad range of perspectives who have common interests in modelling. We seek presentations from numerical models of geodynamic processes to models of geological objects, and from the mineral to lithospheric scales. We will bring together geologists, geophysicists, experimentalists, and computational experts to present their advancements, challenges, and insights into natural resources, natural hazards, crustal deformation, and modelling applications of Northern Europe in particular. The aim is to connect those modelling geological observations with those studying processes to deepen our knowledge of geological systems.

Topics of interest include, but are certainly not limited to

• Modelling of the lithosphere from the upper crust to the asthenosphere
• Numerical- and analogue modelling of deformation and interactions between endogenic and exogenic processes
• 3D and 4D modelling of mineral deposits and metallogenic provinces
• Integration of geophysical, geochemical and geological data (Common Earth Modelling)
• Fluid flow and reservoir modelling
• Advances in commercial and open-source modelling tools
• Machine learning and AI in geomodelling
• Visualization of models

Organisers: Stefan Luth (SGU), Suvi Heinonen (Uni. Helsinki), David Whipp (Uni. Helsinki), Tobias Bauer (LTU)

For mineralization to occur several conditions must intersect, such as the presence of metallogenic fluids, a driving force for fluid migration and conduits, and finally a trapping mechanism where minerals precipitate and accumulate. Identifying and characterising these critical components of a mineral system are key for exploration vectoring. Technological advances in geophysical measurements and their integration are currently enabling mineral system models to evolve from the conceptual to the quantitative and geometric stage and to cross several scales, from regional mapping to individual ore deposits. This session addresses advances in mineral systems research and mineral potential mapping, with focus on geophysical data collection, utilization and integration of geophysical data with other geological data types.

Organisers: Jochen Kamm (GTK), Alireza Malehmir (Uppsala Uni.), Pankaj K. Mishra (GTK), Magdalena Markovic (Uppsala Uni.)

Geoscientific expertise is in high demand as we face increasingly complex environmental challenges. The need to answer this demand highlights the importance of geoscience education. In this session we welcome abstracts covering all areas of geosciences education from the lower secondary level to higher education. We hope to bring together examples and discussions of current successful practices in learning and teaching, both in the classroom or in the field in all levels of geoscience education.

As the research field and the societal need for geoscientific expertise evolve, also the learning methods and teaching practices need to move forward. We welcome discussion of new advances together with current and future trends in geoscience education. Topics might include student centered and problem based learning; utilization of big open access databases and other electronic materials in education of new generation of experts in geosciences; advances in the field teaching, which is essential for building practical skills and experience; openings for collaboration with different stakeholders to link research and education to the societal need; or involving students as part of geoscience community and in teaching development.

We wish to bring together educators and everyone interested in the geoscience education to share and discuss good practices, possible challenges and new ideas for advancing geoscience education.

Organisers: Niina Kuosmanen (Uni. Helsinki), Seija Kultti (Uni. Helsinki), Tiina Eskola (Uni. Oulu), Jukka-Pekka Ranta (Uni. Oulu)

This session invites everyone to share and learn the best practices for communicating the processes and values of geoscience and geoscientific findings to non-specialist audiences outside of formal university settings, focusing on geological outreach, communication and geoethics.

Please share your communication practices – be it in-person interaction, online, social media, mass media, or other methods – addressing questions like:

How can we enhance dialogue, understanding, awareness, enthusiasm, and improve decision making? What kind of outreach efforts are you engaging in and how you are doing it? Do you share your knowledge through science outreach programmes or classes, including primary and secondary school co-operation? Or organise meetings, field trips and workshops? Or perhaps you have experience in participatory knowledge co-creation, creating scientific illustrations or animations, or using risk communication to highlight complex societal and sustainability problems and challenges such as climate change?

Organisers: Laura Säilä-Corfe (Uni. Helsinki), Mia Kotilainen (Uni. Helsinki), Abigail Parker (Uni. Helsinki), Maija Toivanen (Uni. Oulu), David Whipp (Uni. Helsinki)

Contributions related to geosciences, that are not covered by a specific session.

The transition towards carbon neutral energy systems is shifting focus to the increased use of nuclear energy. Consequently, research regarding the safe management of new nuclear energy facilities and disposing of the radioactive waste is a necessity. Geological research plays a pivotal role in siting of nuclear facilities, including small modular reactors, and the safety of various types of geological repositories. Geological knowledge is essential to assure safety and feasibility during the lifetime of these facilities, particularly for deep geological repositories.

This session focuses on the latest geological studies that contribute to the system understanding and mitigation of risks associated with nuclear energy. Geological investigations provide essential insights into site selection and the stability of geological formations. Another aspect is the research and understanding needed for long-term safety assessments of geological disposal that spans for extended periods, typically ranging from thousands to over one million years. Within this context geological analogue studies play an integral role, not only regarding the host rock processes, but also performance of the engineered barriers made from mineral materials.

Specifically, this session will explore advancements in the field of geosciences, including e.g. structural geology, mineralogy, geophysics, hydrogeology, geochemistry and geomechanics, that enhance our ability to assess, monitor and ensure the feasibility and safety of nuclear energy production and radioactive waste disposal. In addition, presentations from multi-disciplinary research are highly encouraged. By fostering a deeper understanding of geological processes, these efforts contribute to the responsible and sustainable use of nuclear energy.

Organisers: Heini Reijonen (GTK), Riikka Kietäväinen (Uni. Helsinki), Antti Joutsen (Posiva), Risto Kiuru (Rock Physics Finland), Nicklas Nordbäck (GTK)

This session focusses on gold bearing mineral systems in the Nordic countries and worldwide.  We welcome contributions that apply micro to regional scale investigations into 1) the genetic processes that drive gold mineralisation, 2) exploration targeting in gold mineral systems, 3) gold metallogeny in the Nordic countries, and 4) new frontiers in gold mineral system science. The session is open to research and exploration in all types of gold-bearing mineral systems including porphyry–epithermal, gold-bearing VMS, IOCG, and orogenic gold systems. We encourage studies that focus on gold-bearing mineral systems in the Nordic countries with reference to systems occurring across the globe.

Organisers: Pasi Eilu (Uni. Turku), Iain Pitcairn (Stockholm Uni.)

We invite researchers to submit abstracts for an upcoming session on the Growth and reworking of the Fennoscandian Shield. This unique geological province, spanning more than two billion years of Earth’s history, offers invaluable insights into the processes of crustal growth, stabilisation, and reactivation.

Key topics of interest include but are not limited to:

• Archaean and Proterozoic crustal evolution of the Fennoscandian Shield.
• The role of tectonic, magmatic and metamorphic processes in the development of the shield.
• Mechanisms and implications of reworking and reactivation events, including orogenic cycles.
• Mapping of lithotectonic units, imaging the lithosphere and reconstructing the assembly of continents.
• Isotopic and geochronological investigations shedding light on timing and processes crustal formation and reworking.
• Comparative studies linking the Fennoscandian Shield through the global supercontinent cycle with other Precambrian shields.

We encourage contributions from a variety of disciplines, including geophysics, petrology, geochemistry, structural geology and sedimentology. Submissions highlighting innovative methodologies, interdisciplinary approaches and recent advances are particularly welcome. We look forward to fostering dynamic discussions and collaborations that advance our understanding of the Fennoscandian Shield.

Organisers: Trond Slagstad (NGU), Perttu Mikkola (GTK), Esa Heilimo (Uni. Turku), Stefan Luth (SGU)

It has been much debated lately whether hominin evolution was driven primarily by the drasting climatic and environmental changes during the Late Cenozoic, by dietary changes or competitive advantage due to flexible behavioural strategies of hominins. In this session we bring together leading researchers from the Nordic countries and beyond to present new discoveries and groundbreaking research that have greatly improved our understanding of this topic during the last few years.

Organisers: Juha Saarinen (Uni. Helsinki), Suvi Viranta (Uni. Helsinki), Anu Kaakinen (Uni. Helsinki), Miikka Tallavaara (Uni. Helsinki)

Water insecurity is a growing global challenge, exacerbated by climate change, highlighting the need for sustainable water resource management. In Arctic and sub-Arctic regions, in addition to anthropogenic effects, rapid warming and shifting hydrological cycles further complicate water management, necessitating research on climate-induced changes, groundwater – surface water interactions, as well as groundwater contamination.

This session invites abstracts in the field of hydrogeology and hydrology, from both quantitative and qualitative point of view related to topics: water supply, managed aquifer recharge, groundwater surface water interactions, groundwater monitoring, hydrogeology and climate change, groundwater recharge, groundwater dating, hydrogeochemistry, groundwater and carbon cycle, 3D hydrogeological modeling, groundwater flow modelling, bedrock hydrogeology, emerging contaminants, hydrogeology in snow dominated areas, AI applications in hydrogeology and other topics from the field of hydro(geo)logy.

Organisers: Kirsti Korkka-Niemi (GTK), Niina Kuosmanen (Uni. Helsinki), Jarkko Okkonen (GTK), Jakob Kidmose (GEUS)

Mining produces raw materials that are necessary for our daily lives and critical in the transition towards carbon neutrality. However, mining operations generate vast amounts of mine wastes, namely waste rock and tailings. These wastes often have harmful or hazardous properties, such as the presence of sulfide minerals, elevated content of metals and metalloids, and chemical residues from processing of valuables, posing a long-term risk to water and the environment. The environmental risks and impacts associated with mine wastes extend far beyond the operational period, requiring a perpetual time-perspective approach in the management of wastes and related risks. To meet the expectations of responsible development, the mining industry needs to prevent and mitigate the environmental impacts associated with mine water and wastes and reduce the associated liabilities early in the mine stage. A variety of innovative strategies are being developed to prevent and mitigate these environmental risks and impacts, improve the environmental performance of mining, and achieve carbon neutrality. These strategies include, but are not limited to, novel and improved approaches in mine planning, mineral processing, water and waste management, separation and recovery of minerals and metals of concern, reuse and recycling, prevention of contaminated drainage, dewatered tailings deposition techniques, mine closure methodology, and carbon capture in mine wastes. We invite contributions presenting findings on the technologies and approaches to prevent and mitigate the water and environmental impacts associated with mine waste, as well as discussing the associated challenges. Contributions about practical case studies and experiences from the industry are especially encouraged.

Organisers: Hanna Kaasalainen (ÅA), Lena Alakangas (LTU), Thomas Pabst (NGI), Päivi Kauppila (GTK)

Understanding magmatism is crucial for understanding the geodynamic and geochemical evolution of our planet. Nordic Countries are a treasure chest of a wide variety of magmatic environments, either active or cemented in the bedrock, from the Archean to the present. Many are related to ore deposits or other economically valuable commodities or geothermal energy.

This session discusses magmatism throughout Earth’s history, with a particular emphasis on active magmatic and volcanic processes and the potential for modern environments to serve as analogues for ancient ones – and vice-versa. During the Archean, for example, Earth’s geological conditions were different from today, with high mantle temperatures and small amount of continental crust – like in Iceland today.

We therefore invite all contributions in the broad field of igneous petrology, and especially encourage temporal approaches in respect to either the magmatic environment or process being particular to a specific time period. Of particular interest are such which could be used as analogues to some other time and/or place, including magmatism on other planetary bodies.

Organisers: Jussi S. Heinonen (ÅA), Valentin Troll (Uppsala Uni.), Elina Lehtonen (Uni. Helsinki), Þorvaldur Þórðarson (Uni. Iceland)

Minerals and metals are crucial for a modern society. Up to now, the growth and prosperity have been based on finite mineral resources and fossil fuels. However, nowadays, as the global demand for critical metallic mineral resources metals has been rising constantly due to the world’s continued population growth, and due to their crucial role in enabling the green energy transition, the mineralogical attributes are getting more important.  Understanding and appreciating the mineralogy is a decisive key component of sustainable development by determining the suitable conditions for the ore-forming processes, applied mineralogy for flowsheet development to efficiently recover valuable elements and finally valorization of tailings and to reduce the environmental risks related to mining waste.  This session embraces all scientific aspects of minerals with emphasis on, but not limited to the contribution of mineralogy to the sustainable development.

Organisers: Jussi Liipo (Metso), Tapio Soukka (Uni. Oulu)

This session welcomes contributions on the orogenic evolution of Fennoscandia, from the Precambrian through the Palaeozoic, and with special reference to how the research aligns with established models and terminology for orogenic events. In many places, new research on the character, geographical distribution and age intervals of magmatism and tectonometamorphic processes challenges both the models and the terminology applied for orogenic events and calls for a revision of current concepts for the orogenic evolution of Fennoscandia. Any research presenting new data and concepts on the age, composition, metamorphism and structural development of orogenic events in Fennoscandia fits into this session.

Organisers: Karin Högdahl (Uppsala Uni.), Jenny Andersson (Swedish Museum of Natural History), Olav Eklund (ÅA)

Mafic-ultramafic rocks related orthomagmatic mineral deposits host important metals (Ni, Cu, Co, PGE, V, Ti, Cr), many of which are listed as critical or strategic raw materials by the European Union. In Fennoscandia, these mineral deposits have wide occurrence in both extensional and convergent tectonic environments, including the Archean and Paleoproterozoic greenstones, the Svecofennian belt, the Sveconorwegian belt, and the Phanerozoic Caledonian belt. In this session, we invite submission of studies that advance the understanding of the mineral deposits in mafic-ultramafic rocks through the mineral systems approach (MSA). This holistic approach views the mineral system from the source of magma generation in the mantle, through translithospheric fractionation and assimilation, to metal enrichment and precipitation in the shallow crust. Petrological and geochemical characterizations, studies highlighting the use of new analytical methods as well as computational and experimental simulations focusing on the MSA are welcome. This session also encourages submissions related to method development for mineral exploration in both regional and local scales. These exploration methods can be related to multiple disciplines and their integration including geological modelling, geophysical imaging at different levels, geochemical mapping, and their interplay via prospectivity modelling.

Organisers: Shenghong Yang (Uni. Oulu), Ville Virtanen (Uni. Helsinki), Rune Larsen (NTNU), Eduardo Mansur (NGU), Tapio Halkoaho (GTK)

The evolution of lithospheric plates through time provides a crucial surface boundary condition to explore the evolution of the solid Earth, from the geodynamo operating in the Earth’s core to plate tectonics playing out at its surface. The positioning and interactions of the lithospheric plates are also key to unraveling Earth’s paleoclimatic and biological evolution. Deep time paleogeography is best constrained by paleomagnetic data, but there remain key questions about the nature and reliability of paleomagnetic data, most notably in the Precambrian. Chief among these are questions about the strength, structure and stability of the geomagnetic field across Precambrian time. Other outstanding questions concern the onset of differential plate motions and the evolution of plate tectonics. Resolutions to these questions will necessitate a multi-faceted approach incorporating a variety of methods and new data.  This session invites contributions that seek to reconstruct and analyze paleogeography (or the constraints behind paleogeographic reconstructions) from diverse approaches. Such approaches may include, but are not limited to, paleomagnetism, the application of geological indicators (paleoclimatic or paleobiologic) and geochemical inferences.  We particularly welcome innovative techniques, such as new applications of artificial intelligence and machine learning to these topics.

Organisers: Johanna Salminen (Uni. Helsinki), Mathew Domeier (Uni. Oslo)

Contributions related to palaeontology and palaeoclimatology, that are not covered by a specific session.

The combination of time and petrological constraints in so-called petrochronology is one of the most powerful strategies for understanding the tectono-metamorphic evolution of geological terrains. In recent years, several improvements have been developed in different fields of geochronology and geochemistry including novel techniques (in situ Rb-Sr, Lu-Hf, and Re-Os), mineral compositional mapping (major and trace elements), stable isotopes (O, Li and B), and the study of mineral, fluid, and melt inclusions. These approaches provide an unprecedented amount of information shedding light on the formation and evolution of geological environments, particularly when used in tandem or when combined with more traditional approaches like zircon U-Pb geochronology. In this session, we welcome contributions that use conventional and/or innovative techniques to investigate tectono-metamorphic questions in the Nordic region and beyond.

Organisers: Kathryn Cutts (GTK), Mahyra Tedeschi (GTK), Bruno Ribeiro, (Curtin Uni.), Jonathan Pownall (Uni. Helsinki), Nolwenn Coint (NGU)

Contributions related to planetary science, that are not covered by a specific session.

The Earth’s climate has allowed for life to continue unabated for billions of years, yet there is evidence in sedimentary and glacial records of significant variations in environmental conditions across a range of timescales in Earth’s history. This includes episodes of rapid global warming with ice-free polar regions, and global cooling with the rapid expansion of continental ice sheets. However, the mechanisms that trigger rapid environmental change are often contentious, with multiple sources suggested as the drivers of observed change. General Earth system models are robust at assessing overall changes in paleoclimate reconstructions, but they commonly have difficulty reproducing latitudinal temperature gradients during global climate transitions. Polar regions are a key piece of this puzzle, as current observations and deep-time records indicate a ‘polar amplification’ to climate change, with greater heating during global warming events, and enhanced chilling during global cooling events. Current observations of Arctic warming confirm an amplified warming to anthropogenic heating, indicating that a ‘polar amplification’ in the warmer future may be more severe than climate models predict. Polar regions also play an integral role in ocean deep water formation that helps drive the thermohaline circulation, and this effect has changed considerably over geological time due to ocean gateway openings from plate tectonics. Despite polar records harbouring key records of environmental change, these localities are currently underrepresented in paleoclimate archives. This session welcomes studies on polar paleoclimate from any time in the entire Phanerozoic. Findings on high-latitude environmental changes across key paleoclimate events are particularly encouraged.

Organisers: Morgan Jones (Umeå Uni.), Kasia Sliwinska (GEUS), Denise Kulhanek (Uni. Kiel), Aleksandra Symrak-Sikora (NTNU), Kim Senger (UNIS)

This session will focus on the ways in which mines are closed such that they deliver environmental, social, cultural and economic value in Scandinavia and the rest of the world. This will include examination of how closed mine sites and related assets can be repurposed, and how to enable Just Transitions for mining regions and communities through closure. The session welcomes new methods and tools that can underpin more rapid advances, data that challenges existing orthodoxies and novel research findings from many disciplines that are most relevant to resolving critical uncertainties. With growing societal and investor expectations, and decarbonisation driving transitions across the globe, it is critical that we focus on what information is required to answer the most pressing questions that matter most to those most affected. By connecting academia and industry, the discussions should focus on applied, scientifically complex problems to meet societal expectations and demands and help the mining industry contribute to achieving the sustainable development goals.

Organisers: Thomas Baumgartl (Federation Uni. Australia), Tommi Kauppila (GTK), Guy Boggs (CRC TiME)

A longer-term consideration of interactions between ice sheets and climate is essential to contextualise present-day changes, improve theoretical understanding and numerical modelling of climatic and glaciological processes, and predict future changes. Glacial and climatic archives of the high latitudes are distinctly rich and diverse having experienced multiple cycles of ice advance and retreat. In recent decades, numerous technological and methodological developments (e.g. new dating techniques and proxies, readily-available ultra-high resolution imagery, elevation, and bathymetric datasets, and advances in numerical ice and climate modelling) have faciliated fresh insights into the glacial and climate history of these regions. This session will address latest developments in understanding the palaeoglaciology and palaeoclimate of high-latitude regions, focussing on ice-climate interactions through glacial-interglacial cycles. We welcome submissions with a wide geographical and methodological scope; encompassing terrestrial and marine records of ice sheet and palaeoclimatic change, and implementing field, laboratory, remote sensing, and modelling approaches.

Organisers: Carl Regnéll (Stockholm Uni.), Timothy Lane (Aarhus Uni.), Monica Winsborrow (The Arctic University of Norway), Benedict Reinardy (KTH)

This session is devoted to various aspects of earthquakes that are needed for a general scientific understanding of seismicity and for the societal applications of seismology. We invite contributions on seismology and seismic hazard in Northern Europe, including monitoring and analysis of seismicity (tectonic, in particular intraplate, and cryogenic), related natural and induced earthquake hazard, near-surface processes, studies of local and regional seismic events, seismotectonics. We welcome contributions on recent research results, and on passive and active experiments, including deployments of large-N networks and fibre-optic infrastructure for distributed acoustic sensing, as well as Nordic and national seismic hazard and risk assessments.

Organisers: Annakaisa Korja (Uni. Helsinki), Peter Voss (GEUS), Päivi Mäntyniemi (Uni. Helsinki)

The development in remote sensing and airborne geophysical methods has enabled new avenues for their use in geological applications. Collecting remotely sensed data from satellite or manned and unmanned airborne platforms can aid efficient detection of natural or human induced changes in the environment over different time spans. Furthermore, remotely sensed imaging data are relevant for exploration of critical raw materials, mapping of secondary deposits and geological mapping. The use of aircraft and drone borne geophysical data on the other hand allows to obtain physical parameter models of the subsurface (e.g. densities, magnetic and electric properties) that are highly valuable for geological mapping, mineral exploration, ground water mapping and many other earth science applications. We welcome presentations to this session addressing applications of remote sensing and airborne geophysics in solving topical challenges of the day. The focus can be in processing of optical, LiDAR and SAR remote sensing data or geophysical data such as radiometric, electromagnetic, magnetic, georadar or gravity acquired at all scales. Case studies combining remote sensing and airborne geophysical datasets with machine learning, joint inversion/ interpretation methods and other data processing and modelling approaches are acknowledged. Out-of-the-box innovations and non-traditional applications in the fields of geology and related sciences would be also highly appreciated. The session is jointly co-organized by Horizon Europe funded projects MultiMiner and GoldenRAM.

Organisers: Maarit Middleton (GTK), Bjørn Heincke (GEUS), Sara Salehi (GEUS)

The session on Scientific Computing and Artificial Intelligence in Earth Science aims to explore cutting-edge advancements in computational and AI-driven approaches for understanding and modeling Earth systems. This session will provide a platform for presenting innovative research and methodologies addressing challenges in analyzing complex geoscientific processes.  Key topics include high-performance computing (HPC) for Earth science applications, numerical modeling of geoscientific and geophysical processes (e.g., tectonics, fluid flow, seismic wave propagation, and geodynamics), and advanced inverse methods for parameter estimation and subsurface imaging. Emphasis will be placed on uncertainty quantification, a critical component for improving model reliability, and multi-source integration of diverse geoscientific data, including geological, geophysical, and geochemical datasets.  The session will also discuss the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in Earth science, including machine learning, deep learning, and their applications in data analysis, anomaly detection, and predictive modeling. Additionally, the session will address the ethical use of large language models (LLMs) and AI in Earth science, focusing on data privacy, transparency, and responsible deployment in scientific workflows.  This session welcomes contributions from researchers, practitioners, and industry professionals working across diverse Earth science disciplines. By fostering interdisciplinary dialogue, the session seeks to address current challenges, share innovative solutions, and explore the potential of scientific computing and AI in advancing geoscientific and geophysical discovery. Participants will gain insights into these technologies’ transformative capabilities and their responsible use in reshaping Earth science research.

Organisers: Pankaj K. Mishra (GTK), Anand Singh (IIT Bombay), Jochen Kamm (GTK), Cedric Patzer (GTK), Longying Xiao (GTK)

Fluids are central agents of mass and energy change in the Earth’s mantle and crust and key drivers of tectonic, magmatic, hydrothermal, and metasomatic processes. Knowing the compositional and thermodynamic nature of geological fluids and fluid-driven processes is important for understanding deep and shallow elemental cycles, the formation of geological resources, and how the geosphere is linked to the hydro-, atmo- and biospheres. Similarly, degassing of volatiles from magmas plays a key role during volcanic eruptions and the evolution of plutons, but also in mediating the transport and enrichment of metals.

The diverse geology of the Nordic countries offers a unique possibility to investigate and compare active magmatic-hydrothermal processes with geological analogues stretching back to the early Archaean. We welcome contributions aimed at understanding the various roles of fluids and volatiles in magmatic, volcanic, hydrothermal, and ore-forming processes, as well as in metamorphic reactions and metasomatism, in both the past and present, and across the Nordics and beyond. Topics may range from petrological and geochemical studies to experimental, theoretical and field investigations to analytical advances.

Organisers: Eemu Ranta (Uni. Helsinki), Christoph Beier (Uni. Helsinki), Desiree Roerdink (Uni. Bergen)

The session on stratigraphy is organized by the Stratigraphic Commission of Finland (SCF) and welcomes contributions from the wide range of the different stratigraphic approaches and updated national classification schemes. The session will in particular offer a platform to present practical approaches and advice on the use of unit classification systems in order to (i) support consistent geological mapping and unit nomenclature, (ii) assist regional geologists in practical stratigraphic challenges related to complex geological terrains (Precambrian and Quaternary), and (iii) facilitate the development of the geological unit databases and map data management systems. The discussion topics of general interest are on traditional stratigraphic methodologies, on examples of new and innovative stratigraphic techniques, and on the interactions of stratigraphy with other fields of geosciences.

Organisers: Antti E.K. Ojala (Uni. Turku), Kari Strand (Uni. Oulu), Esa Heilimo (Uni. Turku), Linda Wickström (SGU)

Tectonic processes and the involved geological structures play a crucial role in governing the geodynamical and thermal configuration of the lithosphere, influencing the distribution of sedimentary, magmatic and metamorphic rocks. Consequently, these processes are also responsible for the heterogeneous distribution of critical subsurface resources essential for the energy transition, such as critical raw materials, geothermal energy, and natural hydrogen. Furthermore, the resources of drinking water are frequently controlled to some degree by structures within the bedrock.  The deformation within the lithosphere is complex with interacting brittle and ductile processes at diverse scales. Deformation may involve processes ranging from sub-microscopic fracturing and (dynamic) recrystallization at the scales of mineral lattices to crustal-scale shearing. Factors known to determine whether strain is accommodated by brittle and/or ductile processes include but are not limited to: material properties (e.g., grain size, composition), strain rate, strain incompatibilities, pressure-temperature conditions, the availability of fluids, and rock modification by metamorphic reactions. Moreover, the presence of melt/fluid, complex structural architecture and structural inheritance(s) may play a significant role in determining which deformation processes and styles are dominant. As such, establishing and characterising deformation processes across scales will be a key to unravel the complex crustal evolution and present-day structural architectures. In this session we explore which processes contributed to the localization of geological resources and what are the challenges associated with them?  We invite contribution from dealing with Structural Geology, Geophysics and laboratory studies, 3D-modelling, numerical modelling and analogue studies based on different scales dataset.

Organisers: Jon Engström (GTK), Pietari Skyttä (Structural Geology Company), Tobias Bauer (LTU), Pierpaolo Guarnieri (GEUS)

The recent advances in glaciated landscapes have increased our general understanding of subglacial environments, ice sheet dynamics and evolution of subglacial drainage networks. These studies have provided new insights into subglacial processes that erode, transport and deposit/emplace subglacial sediments and landforms formed at subglacial to ice-marginal environments, many of which are based on high-resolution digital elevation models (LiDAR, marine bathymetry), geophysical profiles and facies analyses. The transitions between e.g. depositional and erosional processes and between distributed and channelized drainage environments play a key role in a continuum of resultant landforms and glaciogenic sediments. The present session seeks contributions from palaeo-ice sheet to modern ice sheet areas, including geomorphic, sedimentological and modelling studies that deal with ice sheet dynamics, subglacial drainage and formation of glacial landforms. We also welcome contributions that focus on ice sheets reconstructions and mapping of regional geomorphology for practical applications.

Organisers: Antti E.K. Ojala (Uni. Turku), Niko Putkinen (GTK), Jussi Hovikoski (GTK), Pertti Sarala (Uni. Oulu)

Contributions related to sustainable management of the environment, that are not covered by a specific session.

Humans are a fascinating species. In some aspects, we are just another mammal species, as many of our morphological, anatomical and physiological features are predicted quantitatively from scaling relations of other mammals. Yet, humans are transforming the Earth systems like no other species in the history of the planet. While the Anthropocene as a formal geologic epoch is dead, the term will most likely stick around as it is clear that something extraordinary is happening during the “human era”. While the time period of great acceleration (year 1950) was proposed, mounting evidence shows disproportional human impact much earlier, in some cases extending all the way back to the Early Pleistocene with first members of our genus. Through the human past, we and possibly our ancestors, have directly or indirectly influenced other species through hunting, landscape burning, forest clearance, soil depletion, pollution, and alternation of geochemical cycles.

The aim of this session is to map recent research that explores the long-term impacts of humans on other species and Earth systems in general. We welcome contributions from diverse approaches across disciplines drawing e.g. on micro and macro fossils, geochemistry, sedimentology, archaeology or Earth System modelling. The focus will be on the research done in Nordic countries, but the geographical scope is not limited to North – the topic is global.

Organisers: Miikka Tallavaara (Uni. Helsinki), Saija Saarni (Uni. Turku)

Floods, drought, extreme rain events, increasing winter precipitation, debris flows and coastal and riverbank erosion are examples of rapid hydrology events causing hazards that are threatening the coastal and riverside communities. We welcome approaches and new ideas to manage all freshwater environments, coastal and near-coastal marine regions for example with nature-based solutions or ecosystem approach. We also invite research topics that investigate hydrological processes with modern digital solutions, highlighting the synergies between traditional methodologies and advanced digital tools.

Discussions may include model simulations and predictions of hydrological and geological processes, as well as insights into nature-based- or ecosystem-based management solutions providing resilience to climate change. Additionally, we seek approaches on how the development and implementation of digital tools impact data accuracy and facilitate a deeper understanding of hydrological events and extremes as a phenomenon.

The session is hosted by Digital Waters Flagship experts. Digital Waters Flagship is a leading research and innovation ecosystem, bringing research and new innovations to support decision-making and management in the water sector – digitally.

Organisers: Petteri Alho (Uni. Turku), Saija Saarni (Uni. Turku), Antti E.K. Ojala (Uni. Turku)

Analysis and use of increasingly large data sets has potential for transformative aspects within the whole discipline of Earth sciences. For the solid Earth sciences, the data span geophysics, petrophysics, petrology, geochemistry and geochronology. Traditional data analysis of large datasets from several branches of the scientific fields is cumbersome and challenging and necessitates development of fitting methods. Another venue lies with the possibilities of data mining and machine learning, with possibility to make great leaps in data analysis. A prime example of this are data collected and provided by the geological surveys of the Nordic countries. These surveys have a long-standing tradition of collecting data on the chemical and physical properties of rocks. Much of this data is publicly available, creating a unique opportunity to study data sets with hundreds of thousands to millions of entries. The representativeness of this type of data is very local and usually irregularly distributed, but at the same time interpreted in a larger spatial context. Provided this background, the session invites contributions on work with large data sets in various disciplines of geology, geophysics and geochemistry, as well as methods and method development used to combine, process and analyze large data sets. In particular, contributions on digitalization, data mining and machine learning methods to work with large data sets are welcomed, covering the broad field of solid Earth sciences.

Organisers: Bjarne Almqvist (Uppsala Uni.), Robert Berggren (SGU), Claudia Haase (NGU), Toni Luoto (GTK)