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Inproceedings Reference Structural framework as the new fundament for international geoscientific cooperation and policy support
The transition towards a clean and low carbon energy system in Europe will increasingly rely on the use of the subsurface. Communicating the potential and limitations of subsurface resources and applications remains challenging. This is partly because the subsurface is not part of the world people experience, leaving them without reference frame to understand impacts or consequences. A second element is that the geological context of a specific area is very abstract, three dimensional, and hence difficult to correctly and intuitively disclose using traditional geological maps or models. The GeoConnect³d project is finalising the development and testing of a new type of information system that can be used for various geo-applications, decision-making, and subsurface spatial planning. This is being accomplished through the innovative structural framework model, which reorganises, contextualises, and adds value to geological data. The model is primarily focused on geological limits, or broadly planar structures that separate a given geological unit from its neighbouring units. It also includes geomanifestations, highlighting any distinct local expression of ongoing or past geological processes. These manifestations, or anomalies, often point to specific geologic conditions and therefore can be important sources of information to improve geological understanding of an area and its subsurface (see Van Daele et al., this volume, Rombaut et al., this volume ). Geological information in this model is composed of spatial data at different scales, with a one-to-one link between geometries and their specific attributes (including uncertainties), and of semantic data, categorised conceptually and/or linked using generic SKOS hierarchical schemes. Concepts and geometries are linked by a one-to-many relationship. The combination of these elements subsequently results in a multi-scale, harmonised and robust model. In spite of its sound technical basis, consultation is highly intuitive. The underlying vocabulary is of high scientific standard and linked to INSPIRE and GeoSciML schemes, but can also automatically, both visually and semantically, be simplified to be understood by non-experts. The structural framework-geomanifestations methodology has now been applied to different areas in Europe. The focus on geological limits brings various advantages, such as displaying geological information in an explicit, and therefore more understandable way, and simplifying harmonisation efforts in large-scale geological structures crossing national borders originating from models of different scale and resolution. The link between spatial and semantic data is key in adding conceptual definitions and interpretations to geometries, and provides a very thorough consistency test for present-day regional understanding of geology. As a framework, other geological maps and models can be mapped to it by identifying common limits, such as faults, unconformities, etc, allowing to bring together non-harmonised maps in a meaningful way. The model demonstrates it is possible to gather existing geological data into a harmonised and robust knowledge system. We consider this as the way forward towards pan-European integration and harmonisation of geological information. Moreover, we identify the great potential of the structural framework model as a toolbox to communicate geosciences beyond our specialised community. Making geological information available to all stakeholders involved is an important step to support subsurface spatial planning to move forward towards a clean energy transition. . This project has received funding from the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 731166.
Located in Library / RBINS Staff Publications 2021
Inproceedings Reference Enhanced rock weathering: the overlooked hydrodynamic trap
Enhanced rock weathering (ERW) is a technique proposed to remove large amounts of CO2 from the atmosphere (i.e. a negative emission technology) in which finely fragmented silicate rocks such as basalts (ground basalt) are distributed over agricultural or other land plots. The weathering process involves trapping CO2 but will also typically ameliorate soil properties (pH, soil moisture retention, cation exchange capacity, availability of Si), and can therefore be expected to positively affect plant and microbiological activity. This technique has been proposed in different modified forms over the past decades. In its current format, mainly its potential for near global application (e.g. Beerling et al. 2020) is stressed, and its acceptance is helped by the positive reception by e.g. nature organisations that already apply it as a technique for ecological restoration. Two main and largely separated processes result in trapping of CO2. The first is precipitation of carbonates, often as nodules, in the soil. The second is increased CO2 solubility in groundwater and eventually ocean water due to an increase of the pH value, referred to as the pH-trap. Most of the pH-trapping schemes are built on the assumption that CO2 is dissolved in infiltrating and shallow ground water, then discharged into surface water and consecutively transported to the seas and oceans. In that reservoir CO2 is expected to remain dissolved for centuries and possibly up to ten thousands of years, depending on surfacing times of deep oceanic currents. Another pathway that is systematically overlooked is that of groundwater fluxes that recharge deeper groundwater bodies. Depending on the regional geology, a significant fraction of infiltrating water will engage in deeper and long-term migration. For Belgium, the contribution of hydrodynamic trapping, depending on the hydrogeological setting, could be any part of the 15 to 25% of precipitation that infiltrates. Once infiltrating water enters these cycles, it will not come into contact with the atmosphere for possibly fifty thousand years. In this model, the long-term impact of ERW as a climate mitigation measure rests on a good understanding of the larger hydrogeological context, which encompasses infiltration and the deeper aquifers. Deep aquifers, as well as the migration paths towards them, are strictly isolated and residence times are much longer than for oceans. Recharge areas for deeper aquifer systems may therefore become preferential sites for ERW application, becoming an additional evaluation factor for siting ERW locations that is currently based on surface factors alone.
Located in Library / RBINS Staff Publications 2021
Proceedings Reference Geothermal Enery Use, country update for Belgium, EGC2025
Geothermal energy is progressively gaining ground in Belgium, with tailored strategies emerging across its three Regions. Wallonia has undertaken a comprehensive modernization of its regulatory instruments, set ambitious renewable heat targets, and initiated large-scale subsurface exploration. Flanders is reinforcing its leadership in deep geothermal by targeting new geological formations, while improving shallow geothermal integration and subsurface governance. In the Brussels-Capital Region, efforts focus on incorporating shallow geothermal into urban energy planning through spatial zoning, technical potential mapping, and system monitoring. A suite of regional and European research projects (e.g. GEOCAMB, DESIGNATE, MORE-GEO, URGENT) have played a pivotal role in de-risking geothermal development by providing interdisciplinary tools that address geological complexity, economic feasibility, and environmental performance. Nevertheless, geothermal energy accounted for only 3.3% of Belgium’s renewable heat production in 2023, highlighting the need for accelerated deployment - especially in deep systems. Achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 will require stronger political commitment, harmonized regulatory frameworks, and targeted financial incentives. Ongoing pilot projects and scientific advances confirm geothermal energy's potential to become a cornerstone of Belgium’s sustainable heating transition.
Located in Library / RBINS Staff Publications 2025
Proceedings Reference Advancing Geothermal Potential in Wallonia (Belgium): Insights from Seismic Investigations of Dinantian Carbonates
In response to climate and environmental challenges, the Walloon government is committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 at the latest (including a 95% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to 1990 levels). This goal is based on a progressive emissions reduction trajectory, with an interim target of a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to 1990. To achieve its energy goals, Wallonia will need to adopt geothermal energy on a broad scale and initiate the development of this renewable sector within the region. Currently, geothermal energy represents only a small fraction of the energy mix, even though resources are available in the Sambre-Meuse valley for deep geothermal applications and across the entire region for shallow geothermal systems. Its use aligns fully with the energy transition currently underway in Wallonia. To assess the geothermal potential in Wallonia, gathering primary subsurface data remains essential. A pivotal part of this process involved seismic data acquisition under the DGE-ROLLOUT project (Interreg North-West Europe), completed in October 2023. This initiative generated several new cross-border seismic profiles, which have substantially reduced geological uncertainties, particularly along the BE/GE and BE/NL borders. These data supported the integration of mapped areas of the primary geothermal reservoir target, the Dinantian formation, and fostered knowledge sharing about potential geothermal aquifers. In Wallonia, the Geological Survey of Belgium (GSB) conducted 63.5 km of seismic surveys across Namur's eastern and western regions in December 2022 called GEOCOND 22, focusing on the extent of Dinantian limestones beneath the Midi-Eifelian Fault . Findings from this survey shed light on the geometry of the fault and the potential for Dinantian limestone occurrences at depths of 4-5 km, as well as Givetian-Frasnian carbonates at shallower depths (2-3 km) in the Condroz region. Additionally, reprocessing and reinterpretation of the Dekorp 1A line indicated a strong potential for Dinantian carbonates at depths suitable for deep geothermal exploration in Eastern Belgium Building on these promising results, the Walloon government has approvedurther large geophysical investigations in 2024. The WALSCAN project will gather approximately 400 km of seismic lines across three key areas: Charleroi, Liège, and Verviers/Eupen. Coordinated by GSB, Walscan brings together experienced partners like UMONS, ULG, and EPI Ltd, who contribute extensive expertise in geophysics, geothermal energy and regional geology. Scheduled for 2026, the seismic campaign will concentrate on identifying Dinantian carbonates at varying depths (1.5 km to 4 km) within densely urbanized areas, which align with regions of high energy demand.
Located in Library / RBINS Staff Publications 2025
Inproceedings Reference Conclusions and future actions
Located in Library / RBINS Staff Publications 2024
Inproceedings Reference Présence d'un gecko dans l'Eocène basal de Dormaal (Belgique): un élément thermophile du PETM ?
Si le registre fossile des lézards est assez bon pour l’Eocène moyen et supérieur en Europe, il n’en va pas de même pour l’Eocène inférieur. Seule la localité de Dormaal, datant de l’Eocène basal (niveau-repère MP7,Belgique) semble faire exception. Parmi les nombreux fossiles de lézards de cette localité, nous présentons ici pour la première fois quelques rares éléments appartenant à un gecko. Ce dernier vivait donc dans nos régions durant le Maximum Thermique Paléocène-Eocène (PETM), climat le plus chaud des 66 derniers millions d’années. Ce nouveau taxon, daté de 56 Ma, est le plus ancien gecko cénozoïque connu en Europe. Avec Laonogekko lefevrei de Prémontré (MP 10, Bassin de Paris), plus jeune d’environ 5 millions d’années, ces taxons forment la radiation du Paléogène inférieur de ce clade. Aujourd’hui, les geckos sont répartis dans le monde entier, principalement dans les zones tempérées chaudes à tropicales, bien que certaines espèces puissent atteindre des régions plus froides dans les hémisphères Nord et Sud. Le nouveau gecko de Dormaal représente un élément thermophile, confirmant les préférences thermiques actuelles des geckos. Par ailleurs, la distribution de ce groupe dans des latitudes aussi septentrionales (au-dessus de 50° Nord) n’est pas surprenante durant cette période particulièrement chaude. Bien que le nouveau taxon décrit ici ne soit représenté que par un frontal et des dentaires (deux des éléments les plus fréquemment préservés chez les geckos fossiles), il fournit un nouveau record de diversité des squamates à la base de l’Eocène. Avec Yantarogekko de l’ambre éocène de la Baltique (district de Kaliningrad, nord-ouest de la Russie), ces geckos documentent la distribution septentrionale des geckos en Europe pendant l’Éocène.
Located in Library / RBINS Staff Publications 2022 OA
Inproceedings Reference Correlating cross-border Cenozoic stratigraphy in the Belgian-Dutch border region: results from H3O – De Voorkempen
The sustainable use and management of natural resources in border regions require unambiguous geological information from neighbouring countries. However, the available data often lack compatibility and the same level of detail across borders. Aim of the Belgian-Dutch H3O projects is to produce seamless, cross-border, 3D geological and hydrogeological models of the Cenozoic deposits across the border between Belgium and The Netherlands. “H3O – De Voorkempen” is the third consecutive project, focusing on the Noorderkempen (Flanders) and the western part of Noord-Brabant (The Netherlands). The project started in 2020 and the final results will be delivered in 2023. A crucial step in any cross-border geological modelling task is to establish the correlation between lithostratigraphic units on both sides of the border. In this project, the correlation is initially based on the available knowledge of regional lithostratigraphy (including chronology, depositional environment, sedimentological characteristics) and then further fine-tuned based on the interpretation of high-quality boreholes, geophysical well logs and seismic lines that cover the main geological complexities and cross the international border. The correlations are graphically presented in a chrono-lithostratigraphic correlation chart and cross-section profiles. The established correlation scheme will be used as a base for converting or reinterpreting the available data. In the final stage, the harmonized datasets will be used to create a geometrically and stratigraphically consistent 3D model of “De Voorkempen”. The result will be a state-of-the-art reference for the subsurface structure of the project area, which can be used as a base for scientific research and cross-border management of natural resources. The Belgian-Dutch H3O projects are carried out by a partnership between TNO – Geological Survey of the Netherlands, VITO and RBINS – Geological Survey of Belgium, with support from the Flemish Bureau for Environment and Spatial Development (VPO), Flanders Environment Agency (VMM), Province of Noord-Brabant and drinking water company Brabant Water. The geological models are/will be available in the public domain via the online data portals of DOV (Database of the Subsoil in Flanders) and DINOloket (Data and Information on the Dutch Subsurface). For the technical reports of previous H3O projects, see Deckers et al., 2014 and Vernes et al., 2018. References Deckers, J., Vernes, R.W., Dabekaussen, W., Den Dulk, M., Doornenbal, J.C., Dusar, M., Hummelman, H.J., Matthijs, J., Menkovic, A., Reindersma, R.N., Walstra, J., Westerhoff, W.E. & Witmans, N., 2014. Geologisch en hydrogeologisch 3D model van het Cenozoïcum van de Roerdalslenk in Zuidoost-Nederland en Vlaanderen (H3O-Roerdalslenk). VITO/TNO report, Mol/Utrecht, 208 pp. (incl. 8 appendices). Vernes, R.W., Dekkers, J., Bakker, M., Bogemans, F., De Ceukelaire, M., Doornenbal, J., den Dulk, M., Dusar M., Van Haren, T., Heyvaert, V., Kiden, P., Kruisselbrink, A., Lanckacker, T., Menkovic, A., Meyvis, B., Munsterman, D., Reindersma, R., Rombaut, B., ten Veen, J., van de Ven, T., Walstra, J. & Witmans N., 2018. Geologisch en hydrogeologisch 3D model van het Cenozoïcum van de Belgisch-Nederlandse grensstreek van Midden-Brabant / De Kempen (H3O – De Kempen). TNO/VITO/KBIN-BGD report, Utrecht/Mol/Brussel, 109 pp. (+8 appendices).
Located in Library / RBINS Staff Publications 2021
Proceedings Reference WORKSHOP TO SCOPE ASSESSMENT METHODS TO SET THRESHOLDS (WKBENTH2)
The Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) requires Member States to achieve good en- vironmental status (GES) across their marine waters. The EU have requested ICES to advise on methods for assessing adverse effects on seabed habitats, through selection of relevant indicators for the assessment of benthic habitats and seafloor integrity and associated threshold values for GES in relation to Descriptor 6 – Seabed integrity under the MFSD. Two sets of criteria were developed to evaluate indicators and thresholds respectively for eval- uation of suitability for assessing GES. 16 indicator and 12 threshold criteria were compiled and weighted by importance. The criteria were designed for evaluation at a subregional or regional level. The scoring for these criteria is meant as a guidance when choosing indicators and thresh- olds, so failure to meet one criterion will not necessarily prevent the use of the indicator or thresh- old in an assessment. The framework was evaluated for 6 indicators and for 11 methods for set- ting thresholds. The criteria were found to be useful for evaluation both indicators and thresh- olds. The process works most consistently when there are experts in the group on both the crite- ria themselves and on the indicators and thresholds. The MFSD Descriptor 6 determination of GES needs both a quality threshold (when are seabed habitats in a good state in a specific location) and an extent threshold (proportion of the assess- ment area that needs to have seabed habitats in good state). Eleven different methods for setting thresholds were identified, of which more are suitable for setting quality than for extent thresh- olds. Preferred methods identified an ecologically-motivated difference between a good and de- graded state, rather than another transition. Quality thresholds based on the lower boundary of the range of natural variation were considered most promising. This approach can be used for most, but not all, indicators. The WK collated a standardized dataset to test the specificity, sensitivity and/or responsiveness of sampling-based benthic indicators to pressure gradients for evaluation by WKBENTH3. Risk- based methods will be evaluated as maps and by scored sensitivity and impact score per MSFD habitat type and subdivision. Participants provided input into the selection of indicators for the compilation of indicators. A template was developed for documenting the characteristics of each indicator to facilitate the evaluation of the indicators.
Located in Library / RBINS Staff Publications 2022
Inproceedings Reference H2020 Eurofleets+ Data Management: an integrated data stewardship approach across multidisciplinary Transnational Access cruises
In the scope of H2020 Eurofleets+ project, 28 Transnational Access cruises were funded to conduct multidisciplinary scientific research projects. In order to achieve Open data FAIRness, an integrated data management approach has been set up in synergy with the pan-European SeaDataNet infrastructure involving three NODCs as core partners. It resulted in the collection of a tremendous amount of data from which 66% had been preserved, more than 40% made Findable and 30% Interroperable. Achieving successful data management was allowed by a close collaboration and good communication between scientists and NODCs.
Located in Library / RBINS Staff Publications 2024
Proceedings Reference Occupation de la montagne et transformation des milieux dans les Alpes méridionales au cours de l’Age du Bronze : Approche croisée des données palynologiques et archéologiques en Champsaur et Argentièrois (Hautes-Alpes, France).
Located in Library / RBINS Staff Publications 2018