The 21st Annual Meeting of the Asia Oceania Geosciences Society (AOGS) in Pyeongchang, South Korea, was a significant event for the Sarawak Tropical Peat Research Institute (TROPI). Led by its director, Datu Dr Lulie Melling, the institute made a strong impact at the conference. Alongside Dr Lulie, researchers Dr Frankie Kiew and Yazid Imran Muhammad Faizul represented TROPI, showcasing their expertise and contributions to the field of geosciences.
The AOGS conference, which brought together over 3,000 participants from around 40 countries, served as a platform for scientific exchange and innovation. Established in 2003, AOGS has been instrumental in facilitating the sharing of scientific knowledge and addressing critical geo-scientific issues in Asia and Oceania. This year’s meeting in Pyeongchang, known for hosting major sporting events like the 2018 Winter Olympics and the 2024 Winter Youth Olympic Games, provided a fitting backdrop for the gathering of geoscientists and researchers.
Dr Lulie played a key role at the conference by co-chairing the session on ‚Direct Flux Measurements for Immediate Societal Benefits‘ alongside Dr George Burba, a prominent bio-atmospheric scientist. The session aimed to emphasize the practical applications of direct measurements of heat, water, and greenhouse gases to generate tangible societal benefits, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. This focus on real-world applications underscored the importance of geosciences in addressing pressing environmental challenges.
One of the highlights of the session was the presentation by Nikaan Koupaei Abyazani, an American PhD student from the University of Wisconsin-Madison working with TROPI. His presentation on ‚Enhancing Tropical Peatland Vulnerability Assessments Through Remote Sensing and Carbon Flux Measurement‘ showcased the use of remote sensing technology to detect changes in groundwater levels in tropical peatlands. This research is crucial in understanding the dynamics of carbon emissions in these ecosystems and contributes significantly to the field of geosciences.
Dr Lulie emphasized the importance of international collaboration in advancing our understanding of the Earth’s complex systems. The contributions of TROPI and its researchers at the AOGS meeting highlighted the institute’s commitment to addressing environmental challenges and pushing the boundaries of geosciences research. By participating in such prestigious conferences and sharing their expertise, TROPI continues to make a valuable impact in the field of geosciences.
Overall, the 21st Annual Meeting of the Asia Oceania Geosciences Society was a platform for researchers like Dr Lulie and his team to showcase their work, collaborate with peers from around the world, and contribute to the advancement of geosciences. Their presence at the conference underscores the importance of ongoing research and international cooperation in addressing global environmental issues.