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In August 2024, at the 37th International Geological Congress (IGC) in Busan, South Korea, the global geoscience community made a resounding decision: Canada will host the world for the 38th IGC in 2028.

This victory is a testament to the strength, diversity, and collaborative spirit of the Canadian Earth Science community. After years of planning, preparation, and showcasing our nation's incredible geological heritage, the bid committee successfully demonstrated that Calgary, Alberta is the perfect stage for the "Olympics of Geology."

A Monumental Achievementent

The International Geological Congress is the oldest and most prestigious gathering of geoscientists on the planet, dating back to 1878. Hosting it is a rare honor; the last time Canada welcomed the IGC was over 50 years ago in Montreal (1972).

Winning the 2028 bid was no small feat. It required a unified effort from academia, industry, government surveys, and national organizations. The Canadian Bid Committee, co-chaired by Dr. David Eaton and Dr. Katherine Boggs, presented a compelling vision that combined cutting-edge science with deep respect for Indigenous knowledge and lands.

Why Calgary? Why Now?

The selection of Calgary as the host city is strategic and symbolic. Situated at the doorstep of the Canadian Rockies—a UNESCO World Heritage site and a geological pilgrimage destination—Calgary offers unparalleled access to world-class field trips.

But it’s not just about the rocks. Calgary is a hub of energy innovation. As the world transitions toward a net-zero future, the 2028 Congress will be a critical forum for discussing the role of geoscience in:

• Sustainable Energy: From traditional resources to geothermal, hydrogen, and carbon capture.
• Critical Minerals: Securing the supply chains needed for modern technology.
• Water Resources: Managing our most precious fluid in a changing climate.
• Geohazards: Understanding and mitigating risks in dynamic environments.

The Role of the Canadian Geological Foundation

The Canadian Geological Foundation (CGF) has long been a quiet but essential pillar of support for initiatives that elevate Canadian geoscience on the world stage. While the bid itself was a massive collaborative effort involving many partners, the foundational work of building a vibrant, connected, and well-funded geological community in Canada is what made this bid possible.

Projects funded by the CGF—from local museum exhibits to national educational programs—have helped cultivate the fertile ground from which this successful bid grew. By supporting the "Bid Delivery" and the promotional efforts required to bring this event home, the CGF continues its mission to foster the growth of the geological sciences in Canada.

What to Expect in 2028

The 38th IGC will be held at the expanded BMO Centre in Calgary from August 12–20, 2028. We expect to welcome between 6,000 and 10,000 delegates from every corner of the globe.

The scientific program will be robust, covering every discipline from planetary geology to paleontology. But ask any geologist, and they will tell you the real magic happens in the field. The proposed field trips are nothing short of spectacular:

• The Burgess Shale: Visiting the site of the Cambrian Explosion.
• The Oil Sands: Examining the scale and complexity of one of the world's largest energy projects.
• Dinosaur Provincial Park: Walking among the giants of the Cretaceous.
• The Canadian Shield: Exploring some of the oldest rocks on Earth in the Northwest Territories and Northern Saskatchewan.

A Legacy for the Future

Hosting the IGC is about more than just a week of conferences. It is about inspiring the next generation. The 2028 Congress will have a strong focus on Youth and Early Career Professionals, ensuring that young Canadian scientists have the opportunity to network with the world's best.

It also provides a platform to highlight Indigenous Geoscience. The bid committee has prioritized meaningful engagement with Indigenous communities, recognizing that their traditional knowledge of the land is a vital part of our collective understanding of Earth history.

The countdown to 2028 has begun. We invite the entire Canadian community to get involved, volunteer, and get ready to show the world why Canada is truly a "Geological Giant."