George Mason University

01/21/2025 | News release | Distributed by Public on 01/22/2025 17:21

Mason Korea students conduct environmental research on Incheon stream

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A team of student fellows at Mason Korea's Center for Security and Policy Studies received a grant from George Mason University to support their research on improving water quality in Incheon's Seunggi-cheon stream.

Mason Impact project team at work. Photo provided

Under the guidance of Mason Korea faculty members Soyoung Kwonand Dakota McCarty, the team conducted fieldwork to collect and analyze water samples as part of the Mason Impactprogram. The project, "Enhancing Water Quality Management of Seunggi-cheon in Incheon, South Korea: A Region-focused, Low-cost, Nature-based Approach," produced a comprehensive dataset that helped pinpoint areas of elevated pollution in the stream using advanced statistical techniques. The findings informed the development of actionable strategies to enhance local stream health.

"We started this research project with one goal: to make an impact," said global affairs major Hyunwoo Jo, one of the student fellows. "I'm glad that we've accomplished just that through our case study. I was able to conduct valuable-and unique-quantitative research under faculty guidance."

Mason Impact project team with their poster at Fall Student Project Showcase. Photo provided

"I believe the world can change by focusing on small things nearby. Seunggi-cheon may be unknown to those outside Incheon, it is valuable to local residents as a place for walking, exercising, and supporting various wildlife," said global affairs major Minji Kim. "Through collecting and analyzing water samples, we gained insights into environmental security that could inform policies not just for this river, but for others in Korea and beyond."

"This project was a perfect case of the power of pairing interdisciplinary research with experiential learning," said McCarty, who is an assistant professor in Mason Korea's Department of Environmental Science and Policy. "Through their dedication, and getting their hands dirty in real-world field research, the team not only gained valuable research experience but also contributed actionable insights to improve water quality in the Seunggi-cheon stream."

"Thanks to Dr. McCarty's enthusiasm and guidance, our student fellows had a valuable time learning through experiments," said Kwon,an associate professor of global affairs and director of security policy studies-Korea. "They also learned how to translate the research outcomes into policies for community development."

The mini grant, awarded by George Mason's Office of the Provost, supports experiential learning projects that address real-world challenges. The students presented their findings at Mason Korea's Fall 2024 Student Project Showcase.