China has developed the world’s most advanced environmental monitoring system, and according to the Chinese Academy of Sciences, via a report published by Phys.org, a leading researcher says it could act as a template for other such systems across the globe.
China has made great strides in clean energy in recent years. The country is home to the world’s largest electric vehicle manufacturer in BYD and the world’s largest EV battery manufacturer in CATL. China also opened the world’s largest solar farm in late 2024 and is in the process of building one that will be even bigger.
It should come as no surprise that China has now put together such an expansive environmental monitoring system.
Over the last decade, under the umbrella of the China National Environmental Monitoring Center, China has built a massive monitoring infrastructure, including over 330,000 stations across the country as well as satellites and unmanned drones.
The network collects real-time data across space, air, ground, and sea, and it’s not just superficial information that’s collected. It’s capable of collecting information on air quality, river water chemistry, soil contamination, and ocean currents.
The system also uses AI-powered analytics and automated labs, and a central platform merges the information into predictive models. According to the report, this advanced monitoring system has already shown a significant impact. Between 2015 and 2022, particulate matter pollution dropped by 35%.
This type of system on a global scale would allow policymakers to act proactively rather than reactively and greatly reduce pollution, at the same time benefiting human health. It provides a road map to cleaner air, water and soil.
“Intelligent environmental monitoring is no longer a luxury — it’s a necessity,” Dr. Dawei Zhang, director of the CNEMC, said, per the report. “Our experience shows that when real-time data is integrated with smart analytics, we can predict, prevent, and even reverse environmental damage. This system is not just a national achievement — it’s a scalable, collaborative tool that can help the global community respond more effectively to ecological challenges.”
Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don’t miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
