europe.chinadaily.com.cn
China Uses Robots and AI to Preserve the Great Wall
In Hebei, China, a four-legged robot and drones are used to inspect and protect the Shanhaiguan Pass section of the Great Wall, improving efficiency and using biological methods to combat rain erosion, while educational programs using AI aim to foster future preservation efforts.
- How are technological advancements impacting the preservation efforts of the Great Wall in Hebei province?
- A four-legged robot equipped with smart sensors and cameras is now inspecting the Shanhaiguan Pass section of the Great Wall in Hebei, China, identifying structural problems such as cracks and missing bricks in real-time. This technology replaces human inspectors in dangerous tasks, improving efficiency and quality of Great Wall protection. The robot's findings are immediately relayed to relevant departments.
- What specific challenges related to the Great Wall's preservation are being addressed by the deployment of drones and robots?
- China is leveraging cutting-edge technologies like robots and drones to enhance the preservation of its Great Wall. Drones provide access to hard-to-reach areas, feeding data into a database for strategic preservation planning. This technological approach addresses challenges to the UNESCO World Heritage site, improving monitoring and maintenance.
- What are the long-term implications of integrating AI and biological conservation methods in the preservation of the Great Wall, and how might these approaches influence future heritage site protection globally?
- The integration of AI tools like DeepSeek into educational programs aims to cultivate future generations' appreciation for and responsibility toward the Great Wall's preservation. Biological conservation methods, using naturally occurring cyanobacteria to protect rammed earth walls from rain erosion, demonstrate a sustainable, eco-friendly approach to Great Wall preservation. This multi-pronged technological and biological strategy ensures the long-term protection of this historical site.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the story positively, highlighting China's technological advancements and successful conservation efforts. The headline implicitly praises these efforts. The focus on technological solutions may overshadow potential challenges or limitations in these approaches. While this positive framing is not inherently biased, it could benefit from acknowledging potential drawbacks or alternative perspectives.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and descriptive. Terms such as "agile four-legged robot" and "sharp-eyed robot" are slightly anthropomorphic, but this doesn't appear to significantly skew the narrative. The overall tone is positive and celebratory of technological achievements, but this framing, while not inherently biased, could be improved by adding a more nuanced perspective.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on technological solutions for preserving the Great Wall. While it mentions the importance of monitoring and conservation, it omits discussion of potential challenges like funding limitations, political hurdles, or potential conflicts between preservation efforts and tourism or development. The lack of these perspectives limits a complete understanding of the complexities involved in preserving such a vast and ancient structure. Omission of social and economic factors impacting preservation efforts is notable.
Gender Bias
The article mentions Zhang Peng, a male drone operator, by name and provides a quote. Liu Liang, also male, is similarly featured prominently. While no overt gender bias exists, the lack of female voices or perspectives in technological roles related to the Great Wall's preservation could benefit the narrative by demonstrating greater inclusivity. More balanced representation would strengthen the article.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the use of technology to preserve the Great Wall, a significant cultural heritage site. This aligns with SDG 11, which aims to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. The use of robots, drones, and biological methods for preservation directly contributes to the long-term sustainability of this cultural landmark and promotes responsible urban planning and heritage management.