ICEDS Members' profile with Dr Hina Aslam

What inspired you to pursue a career in research and how did your journey begin?

My journey into research was profoundly inspired by my father, a distinguished scientist renowned for his impactful contributions to his field. His passion for discovery and dedication to advancing knowledge left a lasting impression on me as a child. I admired his participation in conferences and the way his work influenced others, igniting my own desire to pursue a career in research. This exposure, combined with my intrinsic interest in sciences, led me to pursue a module in ecology during my A-levels in the UK. This experience, particularly a research project on an island, sparked my fascination with the scientific inquiry and the comprehensive process of research, from experimentation to policy interpretation. Although initially inclined towards dentistry or a medical field due to my science background, my curiosity for uncovering unresolved questions—a trait I attribute to my father—guided me towards a PhD in ecology. My path was not without challenges, including a significant moment when I had to seek supervision for my bachelor's research project, leading me to the Dean of a top university who admired my initiative. My journey has been fuelled by consistency, resilience, and an enduring quest for knowledge, qualities that have been instrumental in my research career.

What was most rewarding about conducting this research in your field? Are there any challenges that you frequently encounter?

Engaging in research within my field is immensely rewarding as it allows me to bridge the gap between academic insights and practical decision-making in both the public and private sectors. My work sits at the intersection of public and private regulations, aiming to streamline decision-making processes and support both industry and government in implementing effective policies. The main challenge lies in reconciling the depth and rigor of academic research with the private sector's demand for quick, actionable insights. This involves translating complex findings into accessible language and aligning the differing priorities and languages of academia and industry. Despite the challenges, the opportunity to influence real-world outcomes through a holistic approach that involves stakeholder engagement across government, NGOs, private sector, academia, and communities is profoundly satisfying. My experience in stakeholder engagement further enhances my ability to incorporate diverse perspectives into my work, striving for comprehensive solutions that align with both national and international objectives.

How do you think your research contributes to the broader societal and or scientific advancements?

As an André Hoffmann Senior Research Fellow at the World Economic Forum and Australian National University, I lead research on regulatory challenges and opportunities in circular economy solutions, with a particular focus on embedded emissions accounting for net zero industrial transitions. I also serve as a research lead for the Heavy Industry Low-Carbon Transition Cooperative Research Centre (HILT CRC) project on certification and verification for the low-carbon transition in Australia, in collaboration with Curtin University and various industrial partners. This work directly contributes to climate policy, environmental governance, and law, underscoring the critical need for interdisciplinary solutions to address global environmental challenges.

My research focuses on embedded emissions accounting frameworks for low carbon transition of heavy industry, pivotal for industries aiming to achieve the Net Zero target outlined by the 1.5 degrees Paris agreement. This work addresses the complexity and confusion caused by proliferated frameworks, benchmarked by varying accounting approaches and methodologies. By advocating for government intervention to standardize private sector regulations, my research aims to ensure these frameworks are interoperable and compatible internationally, facilitating compliance with cross-border carbon regulations. Specifically, my work targets hard-to-abate sectors like iron, steel, aluminium, and cement, which are significant for Australia's economy, environment and climate targets. This initiative is part of a broader effort, including a three-year project with HILT CRC, to develop accurate embedded emissions accounting methodologies, contributing significantly to Australia's environmental policy and circular economy efforts.

Can you share a memorable moment from your research career that has significantly influenced your thinking?

During my PhD, I conducted an ecosystem service valuation in a southeastern Pakistani desert region impacted by a Pakistan-China coal mining project. This area, spanning around 9,500 square kilometres, was crucial for local communities reliant on water for livelihoods, including grazing and limited agriculture. Despite socio-economic efforts by the mining project, such as housing and employment, the environmental impact, particularly on water resources, was significant. Collaborating with a research institute from Xinjiang, China, we applied their expertise in bio-saline agriculture to address the adverse effects, transforming the desert into a more resilient and productive environment. This initiative has not only improved local livelihoods through agriculture but also offered sustainable solutions to manage the saline water from mining. The project's success, now recognized on broadcast television, highlights the positive, tangible impact of integrating scientific research with community needs, a process I spearheaded single-handedly, working closely with local stakeholders and facing numerous challenges.

Do you have any advice for early career researchers in your field about the importance of interdisciplinary research?

Interdisciplinary research is crucial for early career researchers aiming for impactful work in today's complex world. Understanding the interconnectedness of various fields—like how economics ties into environmental issues, which in turn link to social sciences and human behaviours—is essential. My own career path, which spans environmental sciences, climate policies and governance, sustainable finance, economics, and efforts to influence policy and human behaviour, exemplifies the value of an interdisciplinary approach. Gaining expertise in multiple areas allows for a broader understanding of global challenges and enhances the ability to implement practical solutions. For those looking to make a significant impact beyond academia, adopting this approach is vital. It prepares you for the real-world demands where interdisciplinary knowledge is not just beneficial but required. My advice to early career researchers is to embrace interdisciplinary studies to stay competitive and relevant in addressing today's complex problems.

Dr Hina Aslam is a member of the ANU Institute for Climate, Energy & Disaster Solutions (ICEDS), which connects people with climate, energy and disaster-risk research from The Australian National University. ICEDS Membership is free and open to academics (including Visiting Fellows), PhD/HDR students, and professional staff who are involved in climate change, energy transition, or disaster risk science related research and education at ANU. Click here to find out more and join the Institute