The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has released the first global standard for monitoring karst critical zones. Led by Chinese scientists, the protocol establishes high-precision requirements for tracking carbon dioxide and nutrient cycling across surface, soil, and groundwater levels. This standardized approach allows for more accurate data collection on how carbon moves through karst terrains, which cover 22 million square kilometers globally. The framework provides a scientific basis for improving soil and water conservation efforts and understanding global carbon cycles.
