News

Prof. CHEN Jianli Leads Groundbreaking Research on Global Ocean Mass Change and Sea-Level Rise

Professor CHEN Jianli, Chair Professor of Space Geodesy and Earth Sciences at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and his research team have made a significant breakthrough in climate science by establishing the first precise 30-year record (1993–2022) of global ocean mass change, a critical factor in the rise of global mean sea level (GMSL).   The team’s pioneering work utilises advanced space geodetic technologies, specifically time-variable gravity field data derived from satellite laser ranging (SLR), to deliver real-time, high-precision measurements of essential climate indicators such as sea level, wind speed and direction, atmospheric humidity, and rainfall intensity. By implementing an innovative forward modelling technique that incorporates detailed geographic information of ocean-land boundaries, the researchers have overcome previous limitations in spatial resolution, enabling accurate long-term monitoring of global ocean mass changes.   Published in the prestigious Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the study reveals that GMSL has been increasing at an average rate of approximately 3.3 mm per year, with a marked acceleration observed in recent years. The findings indicate that around 60% of the 90 mm global average sea-level rise between 1993 and 2022 is attributable to ocean mass increase, primarily driven by the accelerated melting of land ice, particularly in Greenland. Notably, over 80% of the total increase in global ocean mass during this period is due to the loss of polar ice sheets and mountain glaciers.   Professor CHEN commented, “In recent decades, climate warming has led to accelerated land ice loss, which has played an increasingly dominant role in driving global sea-level rise. Our research enables the direct quantification of global ocean mass increase and provides a comprehensive assessment of its long-term impact on the sea-level budget. This offers crucial data for validating coupled climate models used to project future sea-level rise scenarios.”   Dr NIE Yufeng, Research Assistant Professor of LSGI and lead author of the study, added, “The research showed that the ocean mass changes derived from SLR analysis align well with the total sea level changes observed by satellite altimeters, after accounting for the effect of ocean thermal expansion. This demonstrates that the traditional SLR technique can now serve as a novel and powerful tool for long-term climate change studies.”   This outstanding achievement by Professor CHEN and his team exemplifies RICRI’s commitment to advancing climate monitoring and research. Their work provides vital data for understanding the complexities of global climate change and supports the development of effective strategies for mitigation and adaptation.

Visiting four partner and collaborating universities in Mainland China

The Otto Poon Research Institute for Climate-Resilient Infrastructure (RICRI) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has successfully concluded a series of strategic visits to partner universities in Mainland China from April 7 to April 10, 2025. These visits were pivotal in enhancing collaborative efforts aimed at advancing research and development in climate-resilient infrastructure, a critical area in the face of escalating global climate challenges. Led by Professor LI Xiang-dong, Director of RICRI, the delegation engaged with prominent academic and administrative leaders from Beijing Normal University, Tsinghua University, Tongji University, and Nanjing University. The discussions were centered around establishing joint research centres, securing funding for collaborative projects, and promoting academic exchanges to foster innovation and resilience. A key opportunity arising from these visits is the potential to establish joint research centres with each partner university. These centres would focus on critical areas such as urban resilience, disaster reduction, and the impacts of extreme weather events. By leveraging the combined strengths and expertise of RICRI and its partners, these initiatives have the potential to develop innovative solutions that address the pressing challenges posed by climate change. The visits also paved the way for increased academic exchange and collaboration. Plans were made to involve outstanding scholars from the partner universities in RICRI’s Climate-Resilient Infrastructure Fellowship (CRIF) and to support the International Symposium Series. These initiatives will facilitate the sharing of knowledge and expertise, fostering a collaborative environment that enhances the practical application of research findings. In addition to research collaborations, RICRI and the partner universities identified significant opportunities to secure matching funds to support these initiatives. This includes the potential to access national and university research funds, as well as to attract contributions from corporate and philanthropic sources. Such financial backing presents a crucial opportunity for the successful implementation of joint projects and the establishment of robust research platforms. Moreover, the discussions underscored the potential to develop future urban infrastructure that is resilient to climate change. The partners explored the possibility of conducting joint case studies in various regions of China, including northern mountainous areas, central crop regions, and southern urban-rural zones. These studies offer the opportunity to gain valuable insights into the diverse impacts of climate change and to inform the development of tailored infrastructure solutions. These strategic partnerships are set to significantly advance the field of climate-resilient infrastructure, driving impactful research and sustainable development. RICRI remains committed to building strong international collaborations that not only enhance academic and research capabilities but also contribute to global efforts in combating climate change.

Establishment of Otto Poon Research Institute for Climate-Resilient Infrastructure

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has launched the Otto Poon Research Institute for Climate-Resilient Infrastructure (RICRI) with support from the Otto Poon Charitable Foundation. This institute aims to lead globally in developing resilient and sustainable solutions for urban and rural areas to address climate change challenges. The opening ceremony at Hotel ICON attracted nearly 300 participants, including academics and industry experts. RICRI collaborates with renowned experts from Mainland China and Hong Kong government departments to create an interdisciplinary research platform that integrates government, industry, academia, and research for sustainable development.Prof. Jin-Guang Teng, President of PolyU, highlighted RICRI as a significant milestone in addressing climate change, made possible by Otto Poon's generous support. Dr. Otto Poon emphasized the need for societal collaboration to enhance infrastructure resilience through research and innovation. Mr. Tse Chin-wan, Secretary for Environment and Ecology, discussed government strategies for achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and enhancing climate resilience.Led by Prof. Xiang-dong Li, RICRI focuses on climate change, urban infrastructure resilience, rural disaster mitigation, and climate-resilient policy. The accompanying forum covered topics like extreme climate event prediction, urban infrastructure resilience, and rural community adaptation. The Otto Poon Charitable Foundation has previously supported PolyU's smart city and energy research institutes, further strengthening its capabilities in climate adaptation and infrastructure resilience. RICRI will provide research schemes and funding, including lecture series, fellowships, and research initiatives in climate-resilient infrastructure.For more information about the Research Institute, please visit: https://www.polyu.edu.hk/ricri/​

Study by Prof. WANG Tao’s Team Links Soil Emissions to Global Ozone Pollution

A new study by Prof. WANG Tao, Chair Professor of Atmospheric Environment in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, and Dr WANG Yanan, Postdoctoral Fellow, has been published in Nature Communications. The research examines how climate change and fertilisation practices are increasing soil nitrous acid emissions, which in turn worsen global ozone pollution. The study highlights the significant role of soil reactive nitrogen emissions in affecting air quality and vegetation. It recommends more efficient fertiliser use, including deep placement and precise application rates, to reduce emissions and support sustainable food production. These findings underline the importance of managing soil emissions as part of efforts to address climate change and food security.   Review the full article: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-57161-6

Advancing Sustainable Marine Infrastructure: Prof. LI Xiangdong’s Low-Carbon Concrete Initiative

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is making significant strides in sustainable construction under the guidance of Prof. LI Xiangdong, Director of RICRI. Prof. LI leads a multidisciplinary team that has secured HK$6.03 million from the HKSAR Government’s Green Tech Fund to develop a pioneering low-carbon, self-healing concrete for marine use. This project addresses the urgent need for sustainable alternatives to natural aggregates, which are increasingly scarce. By integrating recycled aggregates enhanced through biomineralisation, the team utilises marine bacteria to capture carbon dioxide and accelerate the carbonisation process. This not only improves the durability and self-healing properties of the concrete but also reduces carbon emissions and promotes the recycling of construction waste. The innovative material is designed to withstand harsh marine environments, making it ideal for coastal engineering and marine infrastructure. The research will include field trials and lifecycle assessments to ensure the concrete meets high standards for durability and environmental protection. Expected outcomes include practical guidelines for design and mixing, as well as insights into the ecological impact of this new material. Prof. LI emphasises that this initiative will help reduce landfill pressures, conserve land resources, and contribute to carbon neutrality, supporting the long-term sustainable development of Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area.