2026 – Futureproofing Groundwater in Scotland

The Scottish Groundwater Conference 2026 brought together researchers, regulators and industry to explore innovation and challenges in hydrogeology.

Dave Banks (Envireau) highlighted Scotland’s growing uptake of shallow geothermal systems, noting over 3,700 existing installations but ongoing barriers around capital costs and regulation. Encouragingly, evidence shows minimal impact on aquifers, with thermal plumes typically limited to short distances when assessed using more robust 3D modelling.

Nik Mannix (Flow-5) emphasised the need for improved monitoring, outlining how IoT-enabled telemetry systems are now more affordable and effective. Advances in data collection, cloud storage and sensor networks are enabling better leak detection and water resource efficiency, though clear return on investment and ongoing calibration remain key.

Kirsty Upton (BGS) showcased national-scale modelling through the British Groundwater Model, integrating machine learning to improve forecasting under climate variability.

The afternoon events included panel sessions with early to established professionals and academics, reflecting on their individual career pathways and sharing their experiences of working in the groundwater environment in Scotland. The sessions offered insights from professionals at different stages of their career, and discussions highlighted skills-needs and gaps, and future opportunities for the sector.

There was a general consensus that there is a lack of geology being taught in secondary school education and that there is a lack of practical skills being taught on postgraduate courses, expected to be due to a result an increase in distance-learning students. The day highlighted how the hydrogeology community can work together to better promote the science to students, including STEM activities, educational materials, and workshops hosted by professionals to prospective students.

Link to Programme