Montserrat: volcanic risk and economic opportunity on a small Caribbean island

Thursday, 4 June 2026, 12.30pm to 1.30pm

Dr Graham Ryan will present an overview of the ongoing impacts of the Soufrière Hills volcano on the island of Montserrat, and the potential for magma-derived resources to support energy independence and sustainable access to critical metals.

The island of Montserrat is a British overseas territory and small island developing state in the Eastern Caribbean. Over the past three decades, life on the island has been shaped by the impacts of the Soufrière Hills volcano. The eruption, which began in 1995, caused fatalities, displaced much of the population, and severely damaged the economy. Although eruptive activity last occurred sixteen years ago, ongoing volcanic unrest continues to create uncertainty and poses challenges for the island’s development.

At the same time, Montserrat’s geology presents significant opportunities. The volcanic system offers the potential for an indigenous geothermal energy supply capable of powering the entire island. In addition, collaboration with the Oxford Martin School has opened the possibility of developing a new green industry focused on extracting critical metals from magma-derived geofluids. These prospects highlight how the island’s volcanic environment can also support future economic development.

Speaker(s): Dr Graham Ryan (Montserrat Volcano Observatory)

Venue: Oxford Martin School - Oxford Martin School 34 Broad Street Oxford Oxfordshire OX1 3BD United Kingdom

Department: Oxford Martin School (Unit)

Organiser: Oxford Martin School Events Team

Register here: https://www.oxfordmartin.ox.ac.uk/events/volcanic-risk