Technological advancements in desert control: Win-win for ecology and economy in Ordos

A total of 20 aerial seeding drones are in operation in the Kubuqi Desert. [Photo/Nuan News]

This year, Ordos has been focusing on the comprehensive management of the Kubuqi Desert, intensifying efforts to combat desertification by leveraging technological advancements to promote high-quality development in sand control.

In the heart of the Kubuqi Desert, in the city's Dalad Banner, a demonstration of mechanical operations between photovoltaic panels recently took place. Five new desertification control planting robots operated simultaneously, completing the entire process within two minutes.

Gao Jianzhong, deputy general manager of Inner Mongolia Jintaiming Technology Group Co, said, "Manual planting can cover 3 mu (0.2 hectares) per person per day at a cost of 300 yuan ($41.10). Now, a single control system manages five devices, planting 400 mu per day with a survival rate of around 90 percent."

This planting robot integrates multiple technologies, including spiral ground drilling, unmanned driving, and artificial intelligence. It boasts independent intellectual property rights and can achieve unmanned, large-scale, all-weather operations, increasing planting efficiency nearly 40-fold compared to traditional manual labor.

In addition to the robots, a series of desert control equipment, such as cluster operation command vehicles and semi-automatic planting vehicles, have been put into use. The company has adjusted the planting method to suit the photovoltaic panel planting scenario.

Meanwhile, 20 aerial seeding drones are also in operation, drawing much attention. Guo Jing, operations director of Ordos Kaitu Technology Co, said, "Compared to traditional manual methods, efficiency has increased nearly 100-fold, and compared to traditional machinery, efficiency has increased nearly 10-fold, saving about 15 yuan per mu."

These technological advancements signify a remarkable win-win situation for both environmental preservation and economic development, showcasing the transformative potential of innovation in desertification control.