Researching Induced Seismicity

Exploiting resources buried deep underground is no easy matter. Indeed, it can only be successful if a number of different factors fall into place. One frequently discussed problem concerns earthquakes that can be triggered by human activity in the subsurface. In March, more than 150 international researchers met up for the second Schatzalp workshop organised in Davos by the Swiss Seismological Service to exchange their views and findings on induced seismicity. Click here for all the posters on display and the presentations made at this workshop.

A recently published overview study investigating the current challenges associated with monitoring and handling induced seismicity showed that real-time monitoring of seismic activities in the subsurface is still not standard practice in many places. This makes it difficult to intervene promptly and take preventive measures. Furthermore, there are no standardised requirements or international norms regarding such monitoring, which especially creates difficulties for projects carried out in border areas.