Julie Hollis, Secretary General, EuroGeoSurveys
Bio: Julie Hollis is Secretary General of EuroGeoSurveys, a not-for-profit association representing 37 European geological survey organisations with the common vision of establishing a sustainable Geological Service for Europe. Previously, Julie worked for more than twenty years in leading roles in government geoscience in Greenland, Denmark and Australia, managing geological mapping and regional geoscience programs to promote mineral exploration investment. She has a PhD in Geology and a Masters in Science Communication and Public Engagement from the University of Edinburgh.
Abstract:
Navigating Europe’s responsible raw materials (RM) challenges relies on robust geoscientific knowledge, harmonised at European level, as well as strong international cooperation. Here, European Geological Survey Organisations (GSOs) play critical roles. In addition to their nationally mandated survey activities, they contribute expertise to areas mandated by the EU Critical Raw Materials Act, including national exploration programmes, mine waste characterisation, mineral intelligence, and supporting ESG standards through promotion of and training in UNFC and UNRMS, supported by the new EU International Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Resource Management. In parallel, the European GSOs have collaboratively delivered RM knowledge and common approaches through projects such as GeoERA, SCRREEN, Futuram, and the Geological Service for Europe project, which has delivered new harmonised CRM maps of onshore and offshore Europe. GSOs also collaboratively deliver technical support to strategic partnerships, including through the PanAfGeo+ programme that is built on collaboration between European and African GSOs.
However, after more than half a century of formal collaboration through EuroGeoSurveys, our experience suggests that the most profound value extends beyond technical outputs. While harmonised data, knowledge sharing, and collaborative projects are vital, collaboration itself has inherent value: our member organisations consistently identify as key assets the professional networking and knowledge sharing they can draw on through their collaboration within EuroGeoSurveys.
The PanAfGeo project powerfully illustrates this. After 8 years, its most significant strategic output is the highly connected, trusted community of geoscientists spanning two continents. Built on years of engagement and permeating institutional levels, PanAfGeo demonstrates that human relationships can become strategic assets. Fostering such collaboration requires sustained effort built on embracing diversity, trust, inclusivity, respect, and openness.
To meet Europe’s future needs supported by geoscience, we are advocating for a permanent Geological Service for Europe. While this Service will provide crucial harmonised data and expertise supporting RRM and ESG standards, it will also institutionalise and sustain trusted human networks built over decades. Investing in such a collaborative framework is essential for securing the geoscientific base for a responsible and resilient raw materials future for Europe.
