Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the importance of multi-disciplinary collaboration in the protection and preservation of stone carvings and grottoes in China, highlighting recent advancements and methodologies in this field [6][7][10]. Group 1: Stone Carvings and Grottoes - The Dazu Rock Carvings in Chongqing are a significant cultural heritage site, with efforts underway to enhance their protection and make the carvings more accessible to the public [2]. - The Longmen Grottoes, another UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases exquisite stone carving art and is a focal point for discussions on preservation techniques [6][10]. Group 2: Multi-disciplinary Collaboration - Experts from over ten countries participated in the 2025 International Forum on Grotto Protection, sharing cutting-edge practices and theories in grotto preservation [6][8]. - The need for a multi-disciplinary approach is emphasized, with techniques from geology, hydrology, and engineering being applied to address water damage and other preservation challenges [7][9]. Group 3: Water Damage Management - Water infiltration poses a significant threat to stone carvings, with the Dazu Rock Carvings experiencing over 1000 mm of annual rainfall, leading to issues like salt efflorescence and surface erosion [7]. - Successful water damage management requires precise geological surveys and the use of advanced technologies such as geological radar and electromagnetic methods to identify water flow paths [7][9]. Group 4: Preventive Protection Strategies - The concept of "preventive protection" is gaining traction, shifting the focus from reactive measures to proactive strategies in preserving cultural heritage [10][11]. - The Longmen Grottoes have implemented a monitoring system with over 200 sensors to detect structural stability and environmental changes, demonstrating the effectiveness of preventive measures [11][12]. Group 5: Technological Innovations - The integration of artificial intelligence and digital technologies is being explored to enhance the preservation of stone carvings, allowing for real-time monitoring and analysis of environmental conditions [13][15]. - Non-destructive testing methods, such as neutron technology, are being utilized to investigate the internal structure of materials without damaging the artifacts, providing valuable insights for preservation efforts [14][15].

Core Viewpoint - The ongoing battle against water damage at the Dazu Rock Carvings has seen significant progress through multidisciplinary collaboration and advanced technology, leading to effective water damage management and preservation of cultural heritage [1][2]. Group 1: Water Damage Management - The Dazu Rock Carvings have faced severe threats from water damage, including rock instability and surface weathering, necessitating a comprehensive management approach [1]. - The team has successfully implemented a multi-disciplinary water damage management system, utilizing advanced techniques such as geological radar and high-density electrical methods to identify water sources and flow paths [1][2]. - The introduction of curtain grouting technology from hydropower engineering has effectively redirected underground water flow away from the rock carvings [1][2]. Group 2: Multidisciplinary Collaboration - The concept of "multidisciplinary collaboration" was emphasized at the forum, highlighting the need for various fields to work together in the protection of cultural heritage [3]. - The protection of the rock carvings involves a wide range of disciplines, including archaeological research, biological pest control, and structural reinforcement, demonstrating the complexity of the preservation efforts [3]. - The approach to heritage protection is evolving, focusing not only on the artifacts themselves but also on the surrounding environment and its interaction with the artifacts [3][4]. Group 3: Educational and Research Initiatives - The establishment of a large-scale physical simulation platform for cultural heritage allows for the testing of artifacts under extreme environmental conditions, showcasing the importance of research in preservation efforts [4]. - There is a call for educational institutions to provide interdisciplinary learning opportunities to cultivate talent in heritage protection, emphasizing the need for a blend of scientific and artistic knowledge [5]. - The international forum facilitated exchanges among experts from various countries, promoting the sharing of best practices and enhancing global efforts in cultural heritage preservation [5].