IUGS Geostandards Inventory

stablishing internationally accepted geological standards has been a central activity of IUGS since its foundation in 1961. From stratigraphic classification to igneous petrologic terminology, from the establishment of radiometric decay constants to interlaboratory calibration techniques, IUGS has always stimulated and supported initiatives for developing geostandards. This objective satisfies the IUGS mandate of fostering international agreement on geological matters; facilitating international cooperation in geological research; improving publication, dissemination, and use of coherent geological information internationally.

In 2011, the IUGS Executive Committee recognized that an overview was lacking over geostandards that have developed by the numerous IUGS task groups, projects and commissions, who often worked in cooperation with IUGS Affiliated Organization. Therefore it was decided to begin to develop an inventory of all geostandards sponsored by IUGS in the past. In addition, it was recognized that that IUGS could endorse existing geostandards developed by other groups. Finally, the international community would be warmly welcomed to propose new geostandards for future development.

A form was developed, and distributed to the entire IUGS community and beyond. The resulting “IUGS Geostandards Inventory” was produced under, IUGS Treasurer, William Cavazza. Download the Inventory here.