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As well, Geoscience B.C. is working to collect and share important data about the potential for geothermal energy in B.C. because it could play a significant role in the long-term energy strategy for the province. To date, our work has included mapping B.C.’s geothermal “hotspots” and producing a guide for communities who are considering using geothermal for power or heat.

Oil and gas research is also underway to locate, accurately measure and monitor greenhouse gas emissions so that they can be better understood and more effectively managed. We recently launched the GHGMap project that uses a mini-optical instrument called a laser spectrometer that weighs just 400 grams and is capable of measuring GHGs at extremely sensitive parts-per-billion levels. Developed by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, the instrument is mounted onto a small drone to quickly detect and analyze emissions of GHGs such as methane into the atmosphere.

Further, Geoscience B.C. is outlining and describing the quality and quantity of water resources. Our Peace Project is the first large-scale effort to map northeastern B.C.’s groundwater and provide reliable technical data to understand the Peace’s shallow aquifers. This work covers an area one-quarter the size of Vancouver Island (9,600 square kilometres) that continues to see significant oil and gas sector and agriculture activities.

The applied research that Geoscience B.C. has generated from more than 160 projects since 2005 is valued because it improves technical understanding, encourages innovation and sparks investment in B.C.