Danish raw materials

At GEUS, we map the seabed in Danish waters to identify sand and gravel raw materials and to ensure a sustainable use of Danish raw materials on land as well as offshore.

SAND AND GRAVEL IN THE SEABED

Within marine geology, GEUS works with the mapping of the seabed in all Danish waters. The main objective is to identify marine raw materials in the form of sand and gravel, which are used extensively in large Danish infrastructure projects such as motorways and bridges. We do most of our mapping in Denmark, but also have mapping projects abroad.

In connection with the marine geological raw material mapping, we contribute to the collection and interpretation of sediment and acoustic data for evaluation of how raw material extraction from the seabed affects the environment. GEUS is also responsible for the national marine raw material database.

Read more about sand and gravel in the seabed (in Danish).

RAW MATERIALS ON LAND

Denmark is mostly self-sufficient in basic raw materials for building and construction and produces industrial minerals and other products derived from them. The basic raw materials, sand, gravel and clay are primarily extracted onshore. The need to take into consideration other nature and public interests when extracting these raw materials is rising.

GEUS assists the authorities with advice on the sustainable exploitation of Danish raw materials.

Read more about raw materials on land (in Danish).