Yogyakarta, April 29, 2026 — The Graduate School of Universitas Gadjah Mada (SPS UGM), through the Field Study Program (Kuliah Kerja Lapang/KKL) conducted by the Master’s Program in Environmental Science, once again emphasized the urgency of a scientific approach in understanding carbon dynamics through the theme “Carbon Estimation in the Context of Environmental Perception.” This activity was not only oriented toward theoretical presentations, but also highlighted critical academic dialogue between lecturers and students as a form of participatory and reflective knowledge construction.
(Activity Documentation)
The main focus of the discussion covered carbon stocks within ecological niches distributed across vegetation, biomass, and soil. In this context, carbon was understood not only as a biogeochemical component, but also as an important indicator in assessing ecosystem stability. The ecological niche approach was used to examine how carbon is stored and interacts within dynamic systems influenced by environmental factors.
During the discussion session, Dr. Emilya Nurjani opened with a reflective question to students: “How do we understand scale in the context of carbon existing beneath the soil surface, which is invisible to the naked eye, yet contributes significantly to the global carbon cycle?” In response, student Rabiyathul Adawiyah Abbas explained that subsurface carbon—particularly in the form of soil organic carbon—is the result of accumulated organic material that has decomposed and been stored over a long period of time.
Responding to this, Dr. Emilya emphasized that theoretically, subsurface carbon does not merely function as a passive storage component, but also as an active element in biogeochemical processes. “Soil carbon is highly sensitive to changes in land use and climate. Therefore, our perception of the ‘size’ or quantity of carbon cannot rely solely on visual or surface-based observation, but must be approached through measurable scientific methods,” she explained.
The discussion then developed into the aspect of relevance. She stressed that understanding the mechanisms of subsurface carbon is crucial in the context of climate change mitigation, as the loss of soil carbon can increase carbon emissions into the atmosphere. She also highlighted that data- and technology-based approaches, such as laboratory analysis and spatial modeling, are key to revealing these invisible carbon dynamics.
Furthermore, the dialogue connected theoretical aspects with policy and conservation practices. Dr. Emilya underlined that carbon mitigation regulations must consider subsurface carbon as an integral part of total carbon stocks. This is particularly relevant in formulating evidence-based policies, including conservation schemes and sustainable land management practices.
As a closing session, the activity also reviewed various carbon estimation methods, ranging from direct field measurements to the use of remote sensing technology and modeling. The integration of these methods is expected to improve the accuracy of carbon estimation, both above and below ground. Thus, the academic dialogue fostered in this Field Study Program serves as an important foundation for strengthening scientific understanding and practical relevance in addressing the challenges of global climate change. This activity also supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13: Climate Action, through strengthening scientific capacity in climate change mitigation, SDG 15: Life on Land, through promoting sustainable ecosystem and land management, and SDG 4: Quality Education, by fostering critical, research-based learning experiences for students.
Author: Hikmatun Lampadjoa