Projects / Programmes
January 1, 2004
- December 31, 2008
| Code |
Science |
Field |
Subfield |
| 1.06.00 |
Natural sciences and mathematics |
Geology |
|
| Code |
Science |
Field |
| P500 |
Natural sciences and mathematics |
Geophysics, physical oceanography, meteorology |
geological mapping, stratigraphy, paleontology, tectonics, active tectonics, Geological Map of Slovenia, regional-scale research, karst, geohazard, lanslides, earthquakes
Researchers (12)
Organisations (2)
Abstract
The program incorporates various research disciplines such as geological mapping, stratigraphy, paleontology, tectonics, geophysics and geothermy. Geological maps as a primary product of the program are used as basis for spatial and social planning, investigations of water resources, geothermal energy and mineral resources, for elaboration of thematic geological maps, for solving ecological problems and for geohazards assessment. Natural, and cultural heritage conservation are applications that are supported by geological maps as well. A great deal of research within the project is aimed towards dealing with geological issues beyond Slovenian borders on a wider European, and global scale (e.g.: understanding tectonics and geodynamics at the junction of the European, Adriatic and Tisza plates, understanding global and oceanic anoxic events during Cretaceous, evolutionary contributions to paleontology, etc.). The research topics of the program Regional Geology are essential for the progress within fundamental fields in geology. The importance of the program is also in strengthening the position of Slovenian geological science within the international scientific community.
Significance for science
We are pointing out the most important scientific achievements: 1) For the first time in Slovenia the P/T boundary was paleontologically proven. It was based on a conodont assembly very specific for its rapid evolution. For this reason it will be applicable to provethe P/T boundary worldwide. 2) The first comparative analysis of terra rossa in its broadest sense was made. 3) The LiDAR remote sensing technique was for the first time applied in Europe for active tectonics research. It was used with excellent results to analyze Idrija and Ravne faults in the NW Slovenia. 4) The vertical component of vertical displacement was quantified for major active structures in W Slovenia, which is a major step forward toward a feasible seismotectonic model of Slovenia. 5) A completely new methodology was developed for landslide/rockfall susceptibility evaluation. Between 2004 and 2008 the PG published 73 original and peer reviewed scientific articles. In total, 375 bibliographic records are found in COBISS for this period. During the period 2004 – 2008 the productivity of PG team members was significantly increased - especially in quality. From only few indexed (SCI, SSCI, A&HCI) articles prior to 2004, the number of these had increased to 31 by 2008. Publishing in the highest-ranked journals became regular which also led to an increased number of citations as well (81 times in the program period). We see the increased quality of publishing as a notable success, since the PG’s research is focused on the territory of Slovenia and is only indirectly connected to the most popular international geological issues. The latter is of course a major disadvantage in the reviewing process. For this reason we understand our breakthrough in publishing as an important acknowledgment to the quality of geological research in Slovenia.
Significance for the country
The PG is consolidating its leading position in the knowledge of general geology in Slovenia also by inviting the professional community to participate in some projects of national importance. A typical example is the elaboration of the standard for graphic representation of geological maps. A team of 17 researchers led by the PG prepared a first draft which is now gaining its final form through a process of an open public review. The standard was derived partly from existing standards (mainly from USA and EU) and is already being tested. The GIS-based digital geological database was formed through a similar process and is already fully operational. The knowledge about Slovenian geology, which is one of the main objects of the PG’s research, forms a basis to the activities listed above, both on economical market as well in the field of public services. These activities enable the transfer of knowledge to the society and help to reach the goal of applicability of research. Several geological maps were finalized during this program period were/will be printed in 2008 and 2009: Northern part of the Trst – Komen plateau, the Selca valley with surrounding hills, the Krško basin and the Žužemberk sheet. We also coordinate the compilation of the Idrija municipality geological maps, elaborated originally by the late Dr. Mlakar. We would like to emphasize here that geological maps are a typical product of scientific research in 3D, which sometimes include interpretation into the fourth dimension, and are not just a cartographic product, which is the category they were given in some important databases (COBISS). An example of cooperation with the state authority is the development and application of a new methodology for landslide and rockfall risk assessment. We expect the methodology to become approved by the state authority as an obligatory constituent of spatial planning. The PG is also a near-exclusive expert in the preparation of geological bases for geothermal and drinking water investigations in more complex cases. Local municipalities are typical clients for these investigations. We believe that by broadening our activities beyond scientific framework of the PG we achieved maybe the most important strategic goal in the field of geology in Slovenia. It is the understanding of the broadest community that geology and regional geology has to be seriously accounted for in spatial planning and all activities that lead to sustainable development. We see the achieving of this goal as the turning point in the appreciation of geologic science as a whole and for this reason we see it as the main success of the PG in 2004 – 2008.
Most important scientific results
Final report,
complete report on dLib.si
Most important socioeconomically and culturally relevant results
Final report,
complete report on dLib.si
