The Circum-Pacific Map Project is an innovative approach to the compilation and presentation of geological and geophysical data related to the genesis and distribution of energy and mineral resources. Some of the innovations already developed by this cooperative international mapping program are in respect to: (1) techniques for cooperation between geoscientists and resource specialists in industry, academia, and government; (2) depiction of new categories and sources of data; and (3) the presentation of geologic and geophysical data such as sea-floor sediment distribution, bottom photography of manganese nodules, representation of active geologic phenomena, and the representation of plate motion.

The seven series of geologic, tectonic, and geophysical maps provide an integrated regional framework to illustrate the relationship of significant mineral and energy resources to the geological environment. Especially important are those deposits that are related to subduction phenomena, rifting, and sedimentation.

Future Map Project activities that offer opportunities for new or expanded areas of international cooperation include: the standardization of data systems, the comparative modeling of mineral deposits, the classification of continental margins in relationship to mineral genesis or deposition, and factors affecting the distribution of resources.

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