Policy & Issues
The IAGC supports and fosters science-based and risk-based regulations along with applicable laws consistent with existing practices that are proven to be environmentally responsible, effective, and operationally feasible.

As the international representative of the geophysical & exploration industry, the IAGC ensures the collective membership has a voice and access with key political decision-makers. We engage our stakeholders and encourage evidence-based policy on key issues for the industry.
We advocate for law, policy and system outcomes that bring win-win solutions to the forefront.
Chris Usher
President & CEO
ION
As the cornerstone of the energy and oil and gas industries, the IAGC works vigorously on behalf of the G&E industry for fair and objective regulatory measures balancing the world’s increasing demand for energy with environmental objectives.
Positions
The IAGC’s positions address key issues within the G&E industry and the IAGC’s stance on these issues.
Comments
The IAGC is a strong advocate for hardworking professionals and the companies that employ them in the G&E, energy, and oil and gas industries. We work to advance the industry’s freedom to operate by engaging governments and stakeholders worldwide on issues central to geophysical operations and exploration access.
U.S. Marine Mammal Protection Act
While the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) was enacted in the United States of America in response to declines of some marine mammal species, it was never designed to regulate sound in the marine environment and seismic surveys. Despite the fact that not one marine mammal in U.S. waters has gone extinct in the more than 40 years since the MMPA became law, today the G&E industry is heavily restricted by the Act. It’s time to Modernize MMPA.