Estonian Earth Resources Centre established at UT

Researching and using natural resources is once again at the centre of attention, bringing plenty of information pollution and false information. UT development fund allocated 100,000 euros to the Earth Resources Centre (MAREK) of the Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences which has engaged researchers from different fields to clarify several questions related to Earth resources.

The development centre for Estonian subsurface resources MAREK (Maapõueressursside arenduskeskus) brings together and coordinates applied research in subsurface studies, the use and processing of subsurface resources and environmental issues.

On the other hand, the centre wants to provide the state, local governments and entrepreneurial partners with expert evaluations and services of the university’s researchers to solve various subsurface problems and have a say in the strategic decisions regarding subsurface resources.

“Subsurface resources are a national asset and using them at the right time, in the right way is an important input to the employment rate and economic growth of the state. Filling the expectations and reducing unwanted consequences of using Earth resources requires solutions which have been weighed up in every possible way through involving specialists of various fields,” said Manager of the Centre and UT Research Fellow in Geology Riho Mõtlep.

There are several activities which need to be considered when using Earth resources and other subsurface resources: planning, research, mining, maintenance of mining sites, analysis of socio-economic and environmental impacts and health risks deriving from using the subsurface, and engaging the local communities in these activities.

The centre will participate in compiling the national strategy for Earth resources, preparing the national strategic research and development support programme and several action programmes regarding Earth resources.

“There are many different activities and very few organisations are able to deal with them complexly, but the UT together with researchers of various fields definitely has the capability to work on these key issues,” said Mõtlep.

Additional information
Riho Mõtlep, Manager of MAREK, UT Research Fellow in Geology
+372 56 565 401
[email protected]