In the heart of Southeast Asia, Indonesia’s tropical soils are undergoing a scientific renaissance, driven by a surge in international collaboration that’s reshaping research priorities and outputs. A new study published in *Soil Advances* (translated from Indonesian as *Advances in Soil Science*) and led by Destika Cahyana from the Research Center for Food Crops at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Indonesia, reveals how global partnerships are advancing soil security and sustainable land use in the region.
Over the past 25 years, Indonesia has seen a remarkable 10.6% annual growth in soil science research publications, with international co-authorship playing a pivotal role. “Collaboration has been a game-changer,” says Cahyana. “It’s not just about increasing the volume of research; it’s about diversifying our thematic priorities and applying scientific findings to real-world challenges.”
The study, which analyzed 3,887 Scopus-indexed publications, highlights the growing influence of countries like Japan, Germany, the United States, and Australia in shaping Indonesia’s research landscape. These collaborations have fostered knowledge exchange, capacity building, and a shift towards applied research themes such as climate change adaptation, carbon sequestration, agroforestry, and precision agriculture.
For the energy sector, the implications are significant. As the world grapples with the need for sustainable energy solutions, understanding and managing tropical soils becomes crucial. “Soil carbon sequestration, for instance, is a key area where our research can directly impact the energy sector,” explains Cahyana. “By improving our understanding of soil’s role in carbon storage, we can contribute to the development of more effective carbon capture and storage technologies.”
However, the study also identifies spatial and institutional imbalances, with research centers and universities in Java and Sumatra dominating the landscape. Regions like Kalimantan and Papua remain underrepresented due to limited institutional presence, access, and funding. “We need more inclusive and equitable partnerships to bridge these gaps,” says Cahyana. “This includes both transdisciplinary and multi-country collaborations that can enhance our research capacity and inform sustainable land use decisions.”
The study’s findings underscore the need for strategic international partnerships that can drive innovation and address global challenges. As Indonesia positions itself as a leader in tropical soil science, the energy sector stands to benefit from the advancements in soil security and sustainable land use.
In the words of Cahyana, “Our research is not just about understanding the soil; it’s about using that understanding to create a more sustainable future.” With the insights gained from this study, the path forward is clearer, and the potential for impact is immense. Published in *Soil Advances*, this research marks a significant step towards advancing soil security through international scientific collaboration.