At the recent Beijing Forum, Professor Sergey Chalov of Lomonosov Moscow State University delivered a powerful keynote on the urgent need for scientific collaboration to tackle the Arctic's accelerating climate crisis. His research spotlights how rivers in northern Eurasia transport massive amounts of carbon into the Arctic Ocean, kicking off a vicious cycle of melting ice, rising emissions, and faster warming.
A Global Climate Hotspot
Chalov points to the Arctic as a true “global hotspot” where temperature spikes are most pronounced. As permafrost and ice melt, they release huge carbon stores into rivers, which eventually pour into the ocean—supercharging greenhouse gas emissions and speeding up the entire climate system.
China’s Indispensable Role
Highlighting the geographic ties that link China directly to the Arctic, Chalov noted major rivers like the Yenisei and its tributaries begin on the Chinese mainland. “Many processes in China directly affect the Arctic,” he says, making China's participation in joint research essential.
He welcomed the inclusion of expanded international scientific cooperation in China’s 15th Five-Year Plan and celebrated the launch of a new joint research center by Moscow State University and Peking University. In particular, he praised Chinese scientists’ modeling expertise and saw the partnership as a meeting “at the top of science.”
In closing, Chalov made a heartfelt appeal: “Our planet is our home—let’s protect it as carefully as we keep our own houses tidy.” His call underscores the power of cross-border teamwork and individual action in safeguarding Earth’s future.
Reference(s):
Russia-China cooperation key to Arctic climate solutions, says expert
cgtn.com
