TS9.1 | Tectonics and Structural Geology in a Changing World
Tectonics and Structural Geology in a Changing World
Convener: Christoph von Hagke | Co-conveners: Anne Pluymakers, Clare Bond, Paola Vannucchi, Pietro Sternai
Fri, 08 May, 14:00–15:45 (CEST)
 
Room G2
Fri, 14:00
Tectonics and Structural Geology addresses fundamental and applied questions about crustal deformation across scales, lithospheric dynamics, and the forces driving rock deformation. By linking processes in the mantle with those at the Earth’s surface, the field provides crucial insights into geodynamic evolution and natural hazards. Beyond academic interest, its relevance extends directly to societal challenges such as nuclear waste disposal, carbon capture and storage, securing critical raw materials, adapting to climate change, and/or safeguarding of critical infrastructure.

Yet, despite its broad impact, the practical applications of this discipline are still too often perceived as serving primarily hydrocarbon exploration. At the same time, like much of the geosciences, it suffers from limited public visibility and declining student enrollment, posing challenges for its future vitality. This session invites the community to reflect on the directions the field of Tectonics and Structural Geology needs to develop or reinforce to remain relevant for industry, society, and policy makers, while also strengthening its visibility to future students and the broader public.

Abstracts by invitation only.

In this session, we will first have two keynote talks.

Annemarie Muntendam-Bos will speak on "Increasing the societal relevance of Structural Geology and Tectonics: a challenge but also an opportunity."

Susanne Buiter will speak on "How can Tectonics and Structural Geology contribute to an Earth System under change?"

After these two keynotes, we will discuss as a community how TS should develop in the future, and how we can make more visible that we provide important contributions in solving problems of a changing world. 

Session assets

Session materials

Speakers

  • Susanne Buiter, GFZ Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences, Germany
  • Annemarie Muntendam-Bos, Delft University of Technology, Netherlands