Investigating the Role of Geophysical Exploration Techniques in Achieving Stable Supply of Energy Resources: Energy Trends in an Uncertain Era and Uncertainty in the Interpretation of Exploration Results

Abstract

　In the current global energy crisis, ensuring a stable supply of energy resources is an extremely important challenge; however, future prospects are shrouded in deep uncertainty. This article aims to grasp recent trends in energy and resource dynamics, clarify the role of geophysical exploration technologies, and discuss the direction of necessary technological advancements. While there have been continuous innovations of data acquisition and analysis technologies in geophysical exploration, there has been less focus on innovation in interpreting exploration results. We discuss the potential for breakthroughs in interpretation of exploration results, particularly addressing the multifaceted nature of uncertainty and the significance of human subjectivity within it. Emphasizing the distinction between the concepts of risk and uncertainty, I point out that human subjectivity in the interpretation of exploration results is not a cause of uncertainty but, rather, plays a vital role in reducing uncertainty. Through focusing on boldly formulating hypotheses and validating them, it is expected to reduce uncertainty, suggesting that extracting beneficial subjective elements from human cognition is an important direction for reducing exploration risks.