Earth Observations for Global Typical Karst

Challenge

Karst is a unique type of landscape formed by the dissolution of soluble rocks, such as limestone, dolomite, and gypsum, creating distinctive features like caves, sinkholes, and underground rivers. These landscapes cover approximately 22 million km² worldwide and are home to around 16.5% of the global population. Additionally, nearly 25% of the world’s population depends on karst water sources.

Karst environments are characterized by stunning landscapes and abundant, yet unstable, water resources due to their interconnected dual-layer hydrogeological structure. The presence of soluble rocks and complex underground drainage systems makes them particularly vulnerable to human activities, as surface impacts can easily extend underground. Establishing thresholds for human activities to mitigate negative effects is an urgent priority, yet no dedicated research has been conducted on this issue.

Solution

Establishing a Comprehensive Database:

This will involve collecting and integrating monitoring data from an observation network, combining in situ measurements with remote sensing (RS) data. The goal is to assess and understand the impact of human activities on karst regions.

Developing Integrated Models:

Utilizing the compiled database, advanced models will be created to identify critical thresholds for human activities, ensuring sustainable development and conservation of karst landscapes on a global scale.

Creating an Intelligent System:

A user-friendly system will be developed to facilitate data sharing, assess environmental and resource conditions, and provide actionable insights for different stakeholders to implement appropriate measures.

Enhancing Awareness and Management:

Outreach materials and educational activities will be designed to promote awareness of karst protection. Additionally, efforts will be made to strengthen decision-making processes and advance research capabilities for better management and conservation of these fragile ecosystems.

Intended Socioeconomic and Environmental Impact

Improve the management of karst water resources by implementing high-efficiency and sustainable approaches for their utilization.

Maintain a healthy environment to support biodiversity conservation and prevent related geohazards.

Enhance development patterns by reducing negative impacts on karst landscapes.

Objectives for 2025–2030

Facilitate effective data sharing on karst resources and the environment by establishing an observation network in key karst areas.
Develop comprehensive models to assess the sustainability of karst areas under the influence of human activities, particularly in relation to water, land, and landscape resources, providing valuable references for policymaking.
Create an intelligent system that enables users to assess the status of resources and the environment in key karst areas, implement early interventions for potential hazards, share relevant data, and support policymaking efforts.
Promote outreach and capacity-building by facilitating the use of project outputs through training programs, educational initiatives, internships, workshops, and other related activities.

How We Work

The core team consists of four working groups, with scientists from various countries contributing. These groups provide relevant existing data, establish in situ monitoring stations for data sharing, develop sustainable models, and conduct outreach activities. Experts from around the world are invited to join as members of the Advisory Group.

Within the initiative, the Leader Group primarily consists of the leaders of the working groups, while the Coordination Group is composed of key contacts for the initiative. Scientists from other countries are encouraged to participate by submitting applications to the Leader Group through designated contacts.