Ideas and perspectives: Research on ecosystem-atmosphere interactions in Asia: early career researcher opinion

Abstract. Due to a growing recognition of the need to study how ecosystems and the atmosphere interact with each other, many regional networks as well as the global network of regional networks, FLUXNET, were formed. Since 1999, when the AsiaFlux network was established, scientists in the region have been measuring the flux densities of energy, water vapor, and greenhouse gas exchanges to better evaluate ecosystem-atmosphere interactions and understand their underlying mechanisms. The network includes natural and managed ecosystems that span broad climatic and ecological gradients, as well as experience diverse management practices and disturbances. In this ideas and perspectives paper, from the view of early career researchers (ECRs), we synthesize key research foci in this network in recent years, with a focus on the latest AsiaFlux conferences, and highlight selected key discoveries. While achieving significant milestones, ECRs argue that the community should work together to emphasize the importance of long-term observations, rejuvenate the network’s shared and open-access database, and actively engage with stakeholders. With many unique ecosystem types in the Asian region, efforts and expertise from AsiaFlux can provide critical insights into the roles of climate change, extreme weather events, soil properties, vegetation physiology and structure, and management practices on the breathing of the biosphere. In closing, we hope this ideas and perspectives paper can inspire the future generation of flux scientists in Asia and promote exchanges between scientists across different cultures and career stages.