Core Insights - The China Association for Science and Technology's Ecological Environment Industry-Academia Alliance released the "Top Ten Technological Advances in Ecological Environment" for 2024, highlighting significant developments in various fields such as permafrost carbon cycling, urban subsidence patterns, and pollution reduction in the Yellow River basin [1][2] Group 1: Technological Advances - The ten technological advances include: 1. Response mechanisms of permafrost carbon cycling to climate warming 2. Evolutionary patterns and control principles of key atmospheric components under climate change 3. Development and application of an intelligent multi-factor environmental meteorology perception and large model forecasting system 4. Integrated coupling model EPICC-Model for emissions and atmospheric processes, which has been open-sourced 5. New formula for estimating global soil microbial carbon sources and its impact on carbon cycling 6. Research on urban subsidence patterns and mechanisms in China 7. Mechanisms of climate change and terrestrial ecosystem interactions 8. Progressive ecological restoration theory and river restoration practices 9. Key technologies for coordinated reduction of carbon emissions from flue gas and their applications 10. Technology system for increasing capacity, reducing pollution, and lowering carbon in the Yellow River basin [2] Group 2: Organizational Background - The Ecological Environment Industry-Academia Alliance is a collaborative innovation organization established by 11 national societies in fields such as environment, ecology, meteorology, and renewable energy, along with well-known enterprises, academic research institutions, and social organizations in the ecological environment sector [2]

Core Insights - The article highlights the advancements in environmental monitoring technology in China, emphasizing the shift from manual to automated and intelligent monitoring systems, which significantly enhance efficiency and accuracy in ecological protection efforts [5][9][10]. Group 1: Technological Advancements - Various high-tech devices, such as pipeline robots and mobile water quality monitoring dogs, are being deployed for environmental monitoring, providing faster and more accurate data collection compared to traditional manual methods [6][7][8]. - The introduction of intelligent platforms like the "Ecological Intelligence" system in Hangzhou allows for real-time data integration from multiple departments, enhancing collaborative environmental governance [11][12][13]. Group 2: Digital Twin Technology - The implementation of digital twin systems, such as the "Qijiang Flood Prevention Digital Twin System," enables precise management of river basins by simulating real-world conditions and providing predictive analytics for water safety [14][15][16]. - These systems facilitate proactive measures, including forecasting, early warning, and scenario simulation, which support scientific decision-making in water resource management [16].

Core Viewpoint - The contributions of ecological and environmental scientists are essential for the protection and improvement of the environment, yet they often remain unrecognized and underappreciated in society [1][2][5]. Group 1: Contributions and Recognition - Ecological and environmental scientists play a crucial role in pollution control, ecological restoration, and the development of policies that support a beautiful China [1][5]. - Their work is often characterized by teamwork and systemic engineering rather than individual breakthroughs, making it difficult for the public to recognize their contributions [1][2]. - The efforts of these scientists are vital for achieving green and high-quality economic development, as they provide the necessary technological support for environmental governance [2][5]. Group 2: Challenges and Support - The perception of environmental protection as merely institutional constraints overlooks the significant role of ecological science in addressing environmental issues [2][3]. - Continuous innovation and exploration are required to tackle evolving environmental challenges, necessitating support for both advanced and exploratory research [3][4]. - There is a need to support both young, innovative researchers and experienced scientists, including retired professionals who continue to contribute to environmental protection [3][4]. Group 3: Legacy and Cultural Significance - The spirit of ecological and environmental scientists is characterized by a commitment to knowledge production and social practice, which is essential for addressing environmental justice and public understanding [4]. - There is a lack of comprehensive documentation of the contributions and stories of these scientists, with only a few published biographies in the field [4]. - Systematic efforts are needed to document and share the narratives of ecological scientists to build a foundation of confidence in ecological science [4].