The International Role of Taiwan Polar Institute: Facing the Challenges of Climate Change Together

Taiwan Polar Institute at National Central University was established in 2023 with support from the Ministry of Education and the National Academy of Marine Research. Led by Shu-Kun Hsu, Dean of the College of Earth Sciences, the center aims to enhance Taiwan's international influence in polar science. It seeks collaboration with international polar research institutions, such as the AWIPEV Station and the British Antarctic Survey, emphasizing the need for global cooperation to address climate change.

The team led by Dean Shu-Kun Hsu, including Prof. Chuen-Fa Ni as newly appointed Director, and Prof. Chien, Hwa as Deputy Director of Taiwan Polar instute visited Ny-Ålesund, one of the most representative scientific research bases in the Arctic. Located at 79°N latitude, this research town brings together scientists from 10 countries, focusing on studies in atmospheric sciences, terrestrial ecology, fjord systems, and glaciers.

Prof. Chien, emphasized that the role of the Taiwan Polar Institute should go beyond promoting polar research domestically; it should also serve as a bridge for international scientific exchange. With climate change being a global concern, international collaboration and collective efforts by scientists are crucial to addressing this challenge. The goal is for Taiwan to make further progress in polar science and to develop effective strategies to combat climate change through international cooperation.