Abstract The geomorphology and sediment systems of volcanic areas can be influenced by uplift (forced folding) related to subsurface migration and accumulation of magma. Seismic geomorphological analysis presents a unique tool to study how surface morphology and subsurface magma dynamics relate, given seismic reflection data can image buried landscapes and underlying intrusions in 3D at resolutions of only a few metres–decametres. However, differential compaction of the sedimentary sequence above incompressible igneous intrusions during burial modifies palaeosurface morphology. Here we use 3D seismic reflection data from offshore NW Australia to explore how the stratigraphic record of igneous intrusion and associated ground deformation can be unravelled. We focus on a forced fold that likely formed in the Early Cretaceous to accommodate intrusion of magma, but which was later amplified by burial-related differential compaction of the host sedimentary sequence. We show how: (1) marine channels and clinoforms may be deflected by syn-depositional intrusion-induced forced folds; and (2) differential compaction can locally change clinoforms depth post-deposition, potentially leading to erroneous interpretation of shoreline trajectories. Our results demonstrate seismic geomorphological analysis can help us better understand how magma emplacement translates into ground deformation, and how this shapes the landform of volcanic regions.

Abstract Over the last 50 years, the North Sea and the Atlantic Margin and, more recently the Barents Sea, represented key study areas for academic and professionals interested in the exploration for and production of hydrocarbon from the Earth's subsurface. Nowadays, these areas may play a major role in the so-called ‘energy transition’, with the energy industry now seeking to reduce emissions related to hydrocarbon consumption, and leading the development of carbon capture and storage activities, such as the Northern Light project ( https://northernlightsccs.com ). Consequently, there is an increasing interest in advancing our knowledge regarding the stratigraphy, sedimentology and tectonic development of the North Sea, Atlantic Margin and Barents Sea with a cross-border approach.

Abstract The North Sea has reached an ultra-mature state as a petroleum basin, entering a phase of infrastructure-led exploration in an attempt to extend the economic lives of the main fields and reduce the rate of production decline. At the same time, the transition to a future low-carbon use of the basin is also in progress. As the papers in this volume demonstrate, in order to find, appraise and develop the mostly smaller near-field opportunities as well as making sure to grasp the opportunities of the near-future energy transition, a regional understanding of the North Sea is still critical. Even more so, a cross-border approach is essential because: (1) some of the plays currently being targeted have a clear cross-border element; (2) it allows a comparison of stratigraphic names throughout the entire basin; and (3) it enables explorers to learn lessons from one part of the rift to be applied somewhere else. This volume offers an up-to-date ‘geology-without-borders’ view of the stratigraphy, sedimentology, tectonics and oil-and-gas exploration trends of the entire North Sea Basin. The challenges associated with data continuity and nomenclature differences across median lines are discussed and mitigated. Examples of under-exploited cross-border plays and discoveries are discussed.