International Lithosphere Program (ILP)

The International Lithosphere Program (ILP) seeks to elucidate the nature, dynamics, origin and evolution of the lithosphere through international, multidisciplinary geoscience research projects and coordinating committees. The ILP is charged with promoting multidisciplinary research projects of interest to both the geological (International Union of Geological Sciences, IUGS) and geophysical (IUGG) communities. The ILP seeks to achieve a fine balance between: "addressing societal needs", e.g. understanding natural catastrophes and other solid earth processes that affect the biosphere, providing information for improved resource exploration and environmental protection; and "satisfying scientific curiosity". The ILP was established in 1980 by the International Council for Science (ICSU) at the request of the and the IUGG and IUGS. Since 2006 ILP is a joint Program of the Unions.