Things get done only if the data we gather can inform and inspire those in a position to make a difference.
~ Mike Schmoker, author
Link to: Investigating and surveying underwater forests: Studying the kelp dispersal areas, density and biomass along the South African West Coast
Investigating and surveying underwater forests
To determine the extent, density and biomass of kelp beds along the West Coast, NRF-SAEON participated in a multi-stakeholder project to gather more precise aerial imagery as current maps were found to be inaccurate.
Science and technology in action
Link to: Navigating the currents: Insights from the ASCA and SEAmester voyage aboard the S.A. Agulhas II
Insights from the ASCA and SEAmester voyage aboard the S.A. Agulhas II
Programmes like SEAmester and ASCA have a profound societal impact. This expedition not only advanced scientific knowledge but also highlighted the critical role of collaborative efforts in addressing global environmental challenges.
Link to: Unveiling the hidden depths of marine heatwaves: Insights from the South-West Indian Ocean
Unveiling the hidden depths of marine heatwaves
MSc student Clea Welch makes a case for further subsurface investigation of marine heatwaves in oceanic regions where warm-core eddies dominate, as the identification of surface marine heatwaves alone underestimates the severity and impacts of these events.
Link to: Meet EFTEON’s new landscape scientist for biodiversity and ecology
Meet EFTEON’s new landscape scientist for biodiversity and ecology
Dr Helga Knoetze’s main responsibility is to develop a Biodiversity Observation Research Programme – for long-term observations of key biological communities across terrestrial and aquatic floral, faunal and (potentially) microbial diversity.
Link to: International dialogue highlights the growth of ocean accounting
International dialogue highlights the growth of ocean accounting
NRF-SAEON, through the Egagasini Node and as a member of the Global Ocean Accounting Partnership, has been involved in a community of practice to test, develop and describe various components of the Oceans Accounting Framework.
Link to: UNESCO/IOC-RTRC-ODC training course on Ocean and Ecosystem Modelling in Qingdao
SAEON scientists selected for training in global ocean modelling expertise
Two ocean modellers from the Egagasini Node were among the select few chosen to attend the 2024 training course on Ocean and Ecosystem Modelling in Qingdao, China. They were the only two South Africans who attended.
Link to: Delving belowground: Insights from the Grassland Society of Southern Africa Conference
Delving belowground to understand the hidden response of plants
PhD student Tsumbedzo Ramalevha shared insights from his research into the belowground regeneration of forbs and grasses at the annual congress of the Grassland Society of Southern Africa.
Link to: Flying the EFTEON flag high at the annual congress of the Grassland Society of Southern Africa
Flying the EFTEON flag high at the annual GSSA congress
Dr Lindokuhle Dlamini and Dr Helga Knoetze of the Expanded Freshwater and Terrestrial Environmental Observation Network gave award-winning presentations at the annual congress of the Grassland Society of Southern Africa.
Building vital capacity
Link to: SAEON’s Graduate Student Network and Project 19 collaborate on science communication programme
SAEON’s Graduate Student Network and Project 19 collaborate on science communication programme
The initiative aims to enhance the communication skills of master’s and PhD early career researchers attending the 2024 Indibano. Science communication training is not commonly offered in universities today, making this programme a valuable opportunity for early career researchers.
Link to: SAEON’s Cathedral Peak LTER platform provides hands-on learning for University of Johannesburg Honours students
Cathedral Peak LTER platform provides hands-on learning for students
Site visits provide invaluable practical exposure for students in a manner that stimulates thinking and leads them to understand the integrated nature of our ecosystems, the processes shaping them and how humans are changing these dynamics.
Science engagement
Link to: How does habitat type influence the presence or absence of mammals?
How does habitat type influence the presence or absence of mammals?
The Ndlovu Node’s Grade 11 annual science camp highlighted the importance of biodiversity as a “thermometer” that measures the health of life on Earth and is essential for the processes that support all life.
Link to: Engaging coastal communities, fostering ocean connections: Reflecting on National Marine Protected Areas Day through community engagement
Reflecting on National Marine Protected Areas Day through community engagement
Through dialogue, education and interaction, the event hosted by SAEON and SANParks fostered a greater understanding of the critical role MPAs play in preserving marine biodiversity and supporting sustainable coastal livelihoods.
Link to: NRF-SAEON in the media 4/24
NRF-SAEON in the media
SAEON’s people and projects received coverage in local and national print, broadcast, online and social media.
SAEON eNews is the bimonthly online newsletter of the South African Environmental Observation Network.
SAEON is a research platform funded by the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) and managed by the National Research Foundation (NRF).
SAEON serves as a national platform for detecting, translating and predicting environmental change through scientifically designed observation systems and research.