Geoscience for Public Policy: The role of the Geological Survey of Brazil in supporting national development strategies

Abstract

This article explores the critical role of the Geological Survey of Brazil (SGB-CPRM) in advancing national development strategies through the provision of geoscientific data and expertise. It examines how the institution's activities align with and support key public policies in Brazil, including those focused on safe and sustainable mining, mapping and studies of oceans and coastal zones, water security (“water in quantity and quality, forever”), disaster risk reduction, and other crosscutting agendas. Through a comparative analysis of strategic plans from leading global geological surveys, the article underscores Brazil’s technical strengths and strong data production capabilities, while also drawing attention to the lack of a formally established national mineral policy integrated into broader development frameworks. It argues that SGB-CPRM plays a vital role in bridging this policy gap and positioning Brazil to participate effectively in the global transition to a low-carbon economy. The article also describes the Brazil Geological Survey’s contributions under the Multi-Year Plan (PPA), particularly in geological mapping and critic minerals, marine geology, water resources and geohazards. Despite facing budgetary and operational constraints, the institution has continued to make progress through institutional collaboration and technical resilience. SGB-CPRM acts as a strategic partner in the formulation and implementation of public policies, integrating geoscientific information into policy frameworks to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of government actions across various sectors. One of the SGB-CPRM's most tangible contributions lies in its long-standing geological mapping program, which has produced an extensive and systematically updated set of geological maps covering the vast Brazilian territory. These maps—developed over decades and continually updated—are accessible through the institutional repository and constitute a fundamental resource for academic research. While not formally responsible for policy formulation, SGB-CPRM acts as a key articulator, providing critical scenarios and technical insights to both the executive and legislative branches. In addition to the national geological mapping program, a core function of SGB-CPRM is to serve as the central hub for generating Brazil's basic geoscientific data. This foundational information, made available through its public platforms, is indispensable for the creation of evidence-based policies. By ensuring access to reliable and standardized national data, SGB-CPRM empowers government bodies, the private sector, and civil society to make informed decisions. To enhance the effectiveness of these policies, there is a clear need for more participatory committees focused on Brazil's diverse development strategies. Continued investment in its technical capabilities and expanded data dissemination efforts will further solidify SGB-CPRM's pivotal role in supporting Brazil’s national development strategies and contributing to a more resilient and sustainable future.