EMU: Extreme energy hiding in the deep Earth: from the emergence of life to its sustainable future

EMU Medallist Talk 2026: Extreme energy hiding in the deep Earth: from the emergence of life to its sustainable future Alberto Vitale Brovarone Hidden deep within the Earth, rocks and minerals preserve records of energy sources formed under extreme conditions. These sources include some of the simplest molecules in geologic fluids, such as H₂ and CH₄, yet their generation and availability have been closely linked to the coevolution of Earth and life. Nearly 25 years after the hypothesis of a deep, hot biosphere thriving in the dark subsurface was proposed, growing evidence suggests that subduction zones may constitute a major source of deep energy capable of sustaining this life, thereby strengthening the connection between two of the planet’s most defining features: subduction and life. Today, these same forms of deep, unconventional energy are motivating renewed mineralogical and petrological research aimed at contributing to a more sustainable energy future for society.