Vanuatu/Scientific seminar: understanding Vanuatu's seismicity through the prism of research

As an extension of its series of conferences on contemporary environmental issues, the AUF - Asia-Pacific organized a scientific seminar in hybrid format on Saturday, May 10, 2025, entitled: Earthquakes in Vanuatu: what does science tell us?

The seminar was moderated by Mr. Philipson Bani, Research Fellow, Vanuatu volcanologist based at the Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD - New Caledonia).He is the author of "Magmatic volatiles control the sub-Plinian basaltic eruptions at Ambae volcano, Vanuatu", published in Nature - Communications Earth & Environment.

His aim was to gain a better understanding of the natural processes behind earthquakes in Vanuatu, and to strengthen the risk culture among local communities and institutional players.

anuatu is one of the world's most geodynamically active territories. Located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, the archipelago is the site of intense tectonic activity, characterized by more than 500 earthquakes with a magnitude isms of magnitude greater than 4 recorded every year, and 86 earthquakes of magnitude ≥ 7 over the last century. This context was brutally reminded by the magnitude 7.3 earthquake off Efate on December 17, 2024, causing significant loss of life and material damage.

In his presentation, Mr. Philipson Bani shed rigorous light on the root causes of this exceptional seismicity. Through an analysis based on the latest scientific data, he explained the tectonic mechanisms at play - notably active subduction between the Australian and Pacific plates - and the physical parameters that influence the frequency and intensity of seismic events in the region.

With this initiative, the AUF reaffirms its commitment to the circulation of scientific knowledge in the French-speaking world, and to raising awareness of climate and environmental issues in the most vulnerable regions.

To watch the recording of the seminar :

Source: /www.auf.org/