The bid to bring the 38th International Geological Congress to Glasgow in 2028 is underpinned by three institutions representing diverse Earth science interests – the Geological Society of London, the British Geological Survey, and the Scottish Geology Trust. Together with the Glasgow Convention Bureau and the Scottish Event Campus, we are supported by our Professional Conference Organiser – the Kenes Group. The notes below briefly introduce the partnership – with far more information available on individual web pages.
Founded in 1807, the Geological Society of London (GSL) is the oldest geological society in the world. Today, it is a world-leading communicator of Earth science – through scholarly publishing, library and information services, cutting-edge scientific conferences, education activities, and outreach to the general public. The Society also provides impartial scientific information and evidence to support policy-making and public debate about the challenges facing humanity. The Geological Society aims to improve knowledge and understanding of the Earth, to promote Earth science education and awareness, and to promote professional excellence and ethical standards in the work of Earth scientists, for the public good. It is the UK’s professional body for Earth science and has a worldwide membership of over 12,000.
The British Geological Survey (BGS) is a world-leading geological survey that undertakes strategic science for the benefit of society. BGS is part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and a research centre under the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC). BGS is the national centre of geological data and information and undertake monitoring and analytical research programmes. These enable the timely and authoritative provision of impartial and independent information and advice to governments, industry and civil society. Founded in 1835, BGS is the world’s oldest geological survey.
Founded as a charity in 2019, the Scottish Geology Trust (SGT) aims to inspire people everywhere to understand, love, and care for Scotland’s incredible geological heritage and its role in creating a sustainable futu
re. The Trust supports the conservation and promotion of accessible and engaging geosites for visitors and local people, so that communities can learn and benefit from their local geology, and Scotland can attract and engage visitors who are interested in geology. SGT emphasises the importance of Scottish geology in education so that new generations understand and engage with the world around us, recognising the direct impact that the study and application of Earth sciences have on our lives. The Trust endeavours to be the voice for geology in Scotland.
Glasgow Convention Bureau, voted Best UK Convention Bureau for the past 17 years, includes a team that continuously develops its city-wide strategic partnerships, world leading Conference Ambassador Programme, and bespoke public engagement activities to support UK, European, and international clients with hosting a successful and memorable meeting in Glasgow. The Glasgow Convention Bureau, the City Council, and their partners are committed to making the city accessible to all residents and visitors. Glasgow is the first city in the UK to join the Global Destination Sustainability Index, currently ranking in the top ten in the world for sustainable tourism and events destinations. The city is a reliable partner for delivering global events – from the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships to COP26 in 2021. The Bureau was a key partner in delivering the award-winning World Congress of Soil Science in 2022.
The Scottish Event Campus (SEC), the venue for COP26 in 2021, features the SEC Centre– five interconnected exhibition halls and over 30 meeting spaces with a combined area of over 22,000 m2. This includes the iconic 3,000 seat SEC Armadillo and the OVO Hydro – a 14,300 capacity concert, sporting and special events arena. The Media Hub on site includes BBC Scotland HQ, STV HQ. Located in one of Glasgow’s hippest neighbourhoods, it is only a few minutes’ walk from the City Centre.
We are partnered with Professional Conference Organisers (PCO) – the Kenes Group. They’re passionate about delivering superior, world-class conferences. They harness the power of community, strengthening association brands through unforgettable experiences – fostering change, inspiring members, educating, and improving societies’ business performance. Over fifty years of knowledge and market expertise have led Kenes Group to the forefront of global association and conference management (AMC and PCO). They bring the accrued confidence that comes from hosting more than 4,200 conferences around the globe online and in-person, for over 220,000 participants a year. Founded in 1965 and headquartered in Geneva, Kenes Group is the only global PCO and AMC dedicated to scientific events. The company boasts a team of over 350 professionals, in 18 locations on four continents, and more than 100 long-term clients.