1:45 PM - 2:00 PM
[HTT18-01] Application of multi-elemental isotope analysis as an environmental traceability methodology
Keywords:Stable isotopes, Multi-isoscapes, Environmental traceability
Stable isotope ratios of elements, together with the concentrations of elements, can trace a matter flow, the environmental condition of sites, ecosystem structure, and food products. Spatio-temporal variation of isotope ratios of multiple elements (multi-isoscapes) can be used to study the earth systems from local to global points of view. Using the traceability function of the multi-isotopes, we can conduct research that contributes to solving global environmental problems covering various regions and time scales. Spatio-temporal variation of multi-isotopes can be used for studying earth systems, ranging from local to global scales. The information may serve as a key decision-making factor for local people to consider water, food, and environmental security, all of which are fundamental for the sustainability of human society.
Research Institute for Humanity and Nature is conducting collaborative research named “Environmental Isotope Study” that researchers from various universities and research institutes can use facilities of mass spectrometers for multiple elements. From 2017 to 2019, we have conducted research to establish a methodology for how to use the concept of environmental traceability “Proposal and verification of the validity of isotope environmental traceability methodology in environmental studies.” This study indicated that the role and perception of traceability methods in transdisciplinary processes differ among stakeholders and that the co-production of “Multi-Isoscapes” can act as an effective “bridging tool” for understanding and explaining variation in local environments. Based on the research results, we started a designated research, “Applied research platform based on environmental traceability,” from 2020 and established an internet website, “The world on the view of Environmental Isotope Study (https://www.environmentalisotope.jp),” to serve as a platform that shares and develops the environmental traceability methodology. The website aims to connect providers of the environmental traceability methodology with potential users. We explain the current development of the research and discuss the collaborations with potential users.
Research Institute for Humanity and Nature is conducting collaborative research named “Environmental Isotope Study” that researchers from various universities and research institutes can use facilities of mass spectrometers for multiple elements. From 2017 to 2019, we have conducted research to establish a methodology for how to use the concept of environmental traceability “Proposal and verification of the validity of isotope environmental traceability methodology in environmental studies.” This study indicated that the role and perception of traceability methods in transdisciplinary processes differ among stakeholders and that the co-production of “Multi-Isoscapes” can act as an effective “bridging tool” for understanding and explaining variation in local environments. Based on the research results, we started a designated research, “Applied research platform based on environmental traceability,” from 2020 and established an internet website, “The world on the view of Environmental Isotope Study (https://www.environmentalisotope.jp),” to serve as a platform that shares and develops the environmental traceability methodology. The website aims to connect providers of the environmental traceability methodology with potential users. We explain the current development of the research and discuss the collaborations with potential users.