China to accelerate digitalization of eco-environment and water monitoring network by 2030

China is set to accelerate the digitalization of its national ecological monitoring network, with plans to transform it into a more advanced and intelligent system, according to the Ministry of Ecology and Environment.

By 2027, the country aims to explore a next-generation monitoring network in key regions, incorporating technologies such as unmanned maintenance and smart sampling. The goal is to standardize monitoring operations nationwide, as outlined in the ministry's plan.

By 2030, China intends to overhaul its eco-environment monitoring network, integrating aerial, terrestrial, and maritime monitoring systems. A “smart brain” for the system will also be largely established by then.

This move marks a concrete step toward digitalized and smart environmental monitoring, stated Jiang Huohua, Head of the Ministry’s Ecological and Environmental Monitoring Department.

The plan will modernize air and water monitoring with unmanned operations, smart sampling, and analysis. Moreover, biodiversity tracking will incorporate cutting-edge equipment like infrared cameras and bird sound recorders, targeting over 85 percent accuracy in species identification.

In terms of noise monitoring, Jiang explained that urban sound environment monitoring equipment will not only track decibel levels but also pinpoint the sources of the noise.

Jiang further highlighted those new technologies, including artificial intelligence and satellite remote sensing, will play an increasingly significant role in China's eco-environmental monitoring. Policies will be introduced to promote the development of environmental protection robots and remote-operation equipment, he added during a press conference last month.