Mineral resource maps : an overview

Mineral resources within the UK are highly valued natural assets. Their extraction contributes 2.4 per cent of the national gross value added (United Kingdom Minerals Yearbook 2008). They are the raw materials for many key industries including manufacturing, construction, power generation, and transportation. However, mineral resources are dependant on geological conditions and can only be worked where they occur. We must make the best use of these valuable assets whilst limiting the effect their extraction has on the environment. It is, therefore, important that planners have access to information that will assist them in minimising potential land-use conflicts and facilitate the conservation and safeguarding of non-renewable mineral resources for future generations.