Baseline geochemical mapping in the UK : the G-BASE programme

National geochemical mapping in the UK is undertaken by the BGS as part of the Geochemical Baseline Survey of the Environment (G-BASE) Programme. The programme began in the early 1970’s in the North of Scotland and will provide a comprehensive high resolution baseline geochemical database for the whole country by the year 2012. The ongoing development and inclusion of state-of-the-art analytical and computing techniques and rigorous quality control over the past 25 years have been fundamental in creating consistent geochemical maps which reflect geological, geomorphological and landuse parameters.