Geohazard - geologically induced hazards

We provide expert support to decision-makers and investors based on characterisation, monitoring, analysis and central data collection on geologically induced hazards. We are working towards a regulatory framework that will allow geological hazards to be taken into account in the spatial development of Slovenia.

The possibility and likelihood of geological hazards must be taken into account when siting strategically important facilities and other key infrastructure. The transfer of knowledge and information to society has a useful value for policy makers and end users, especially for local communities located in areas where the risks of occurrence are higher. Expertise in this field is a prerequisite for mitigating and managing landslides, improving seismic safety and safety against other geologically induced natural hazards and risks.

Strategic objectives

1. Conduct systematic research on current and past fault activity, active tectonics and earthquake safety.

2. to carry out research on the dynamics of slope mass movements, taking into account climate change and incorporating new research and measurement methods.

3. to make the GeoZS the central institution in the country for the collection and interpretation of data on slope mass movements.

Activities

To achieve our strategic objectives, we are implementing the following activities: 

  • We strengthen the development and implementation of palaeoseismological research on major active faults in Slovenia and cross-border areas. 
  • We are expanding the scope of surface geophysical surveys (GPR, reflection seismics, geoelectrics).  
  • We carry out geophysical and hydrogeochemical surveys of natural mineral springs and CO2 at active faults.  
  • We are updating the map of active faults with new insights and data.  
  • We define earthquake hazard zones (micro-regionalisation) based on local geological characteristics.  
  • We are stepping up research into Quaternary geology.  
  • We are developing an upgrade of the avalanche warning system with new, more accurate models for specific avalanche-prone areas. 
  • We are working on the content and methodology for the development of the national warning maps for the risk of mass movements at the national level. 
  • We are improving our understanding of the dynamics of slope mass movements by better understanding the relationships between the drivers of slope mass movements, and by testing and developing new innovative methods.  
  • Monitoring and interpretation of slope mass movements.  
  • We are actively maintaining and upgrading our web-based applications for collecting data on slope mass movements.  
  • We are setting up a comprehensive central collection system, analysis and interpretation of monitoring data on large avalanches.  
  • We are setting up a knowledge centre for decision-making and response to natural disasters (large-scale landslides, strong earthquakes).  

Projects

Read the latest news

Events

Presentation of the results of the Evaluation of Research Networks (ERA-NET) - A new approach and presentation of GeoERA good practices, 20 November 2025

The Slovenian Society of Evaluators (SDE) and GeoZS cordially invite you to a presentation of the results of the ERA-NET evaluation and a good practice example. The event will take place on Thursday, 20 November at 14:00 at GeoZS, Dimičeva ulica 14, Ljubljana, in the 6th floor meeting room. The European...

Travelling Exhibition on Citizen Science, GeoZS Reading Room, 10-21 November 2025

The travelling exhibition "Discover, Collaborate, Explore: citizen science in Slovenia" gives visitors an insight into the history of citizen science, presents Slovenian citizen science projects and initiatives that have shaped the field, and shows how they can get involved in scientific research processes or initiate...

International Scientific Conference SEGH 2026 in Ljubljana, 13-17 July 2026

The 41st International Scientific Conference on Environmental Geochemistry and Health - SEGH2026 will take place in Ljubljana from 13 to 17 July 2026. The conference will address a wide range of current global challenges in the field of environmental geochemistry and health. The main conference themes are: inorganic and organic pollutants in the geosphere, geochemistry...