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

Riesna R. Audh and Jordan Van Stavel onboard the SA 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.

The South-West Indian Ocean, a region situated off the southeastern coast of Africa, is characterised by intricate oceanic dynamics.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Helga and Lindo display their certificates

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

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.

University of Johannesburg Strategic Environmental Planning Honours students visit the Cathedral Peak LTER site

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

The learners collect data in different habitats.

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.

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.

NRF-SAEON in the media

SAEON’s people and projects received coverage in national print, broadcast, online and social media.

Things get done only if the data we gather can inform and inspire those in a position to make a difference.

~ Mike Schmoker, author

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