The second research focus of the "Subsurface: a Common Good" research program is to improve our knowledge of the subsurface, disseminate this knowledge and develop innovative technologies to promote the responsible and sustainable use of the French subsurface.

Future uses of the subsurface will depend on the realities in terms of the geological potential, technological innovation, political support and social acceptance, economic and social impacts, as well as impacts on the environment and health. This research aims to contribute to a better appreciation of existing and (as yet) undiscovered potential, and the identification of new technologies. 

It groups together two targeted projects: 

The Digital Earth project will develop a single platform that provides access to shared knowledge of the subsurface in the form of data, models and tools, with specific interfaces for different types of users. This sharing of knowledge, models and decision-making tools with stakeholders should lead to a better understanding of the challenges associated with the subsurface and a better assessment of resources and the impact of anthropic constraints. 

The InnovTech project aims to bring together the French scientific community working in the field of mineral processing in order to address the main scientific challenges linked to the sustainable exploitation of mineral resources. To achieve this, it will develop cutting-edge experimental and digital tools to gain an in-depth understanding of the processes involved, with the aim of improving their performance and reducing their environmental footprint. Innovative technologies will also be developed.