Coupled Deep Earth and surface processes and their impact on geohazards

Better understanding of coupled Deep Earth and surface processes is the key for resolving the evolution of the continental lithosphere and its surface topography. The thermo-mechanical structure of the lithosphere exerts a prime control on the interaction of mantle instabilities and tectonic forces operating on the lithosphere. These processes are fundamental for differential vertical motions at or near the Earth's surface and have a strong impact in the domains of geohazards and geo-energy. Stress fields exert a main control on volcano dynamics and in the conduits of fluids and melts. Integrated Solid Earth sciences intrinsically link different spatial and temporal scales and involve an interdisciplinary approach, with strong feedbacks between observational studies and imaging of Earth structure, reconstruction of the geological record and process-modelling. © 2012.