Offshore wind power is a major potential direction for ensuring energy security, achieving carbon neutrality goals, and fostering the marine economy. While a single development model can't meet the requirements of three-dimensional development of marine resources and industrial synergy, integrated development of offshore wind power with other offshore energies and resources is becoming the trend for future. This study analyzes the advantages regarding the multi-energy integrated development of offshore wind power in China, reviews the characteristics, domestic and international development trends, and challenges of six foundational models, including integration with offshore oil and gas, hydrogen, photovoltaic, wave energy, marine ranching, as well as integrated energy island. Key conditions for the integrated development are summarized, a decision-making process is established, and future strategic objectives and policy recommendations are proposed. The study suggests that at the resource level, planning guidance should be strengthened to coordinate the opening and development layout of national jurisdictional waters for wind power, while ensuring that development planning is effectively carried out based on the overlapping distribution of resources. At the technical level, efforts should be made for developing key technologies for multi-energy integration, such as offshore hydrogen energy production, storage, and transportation, as well as microgrid dynamic regulation. At the economic level, it is necessary to strengthen industrial collaboration and reduce development costs through multiple strategies such as modularization, standardized construction, and industrial alliances.
Against the background of profound transformations in the global energy landscape and China's critical stage of energy transition, the coordinated development of offshore wind power and oil and gas fields has emerged as an important pathway to promote the efficient and integrated utilization of marine energy and to support the achievement of the "carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals". This study first conducts a systematic assessment of the resource distribution of offshore wind power and oil and gas fields in China, analyzing the resource endowments of the Bohai Sea, East China Sea, and South China Sea. It summarizes the advantages of coordinated development, including spatial overlap of resource distribution, similarity in technical equipment, interconnection of infrastructure, and alignment of development objectives. Subsequently, the current status and typical cases of coordinated offshore wind power and oil and gas development in China and abroad are reviewed, verifying the technical feasibility of such integration. Three major application scenarios suitable for China are proposed: nearshore wind power combined with onshore power supply, deep and far-sea wind power, and special development modes. These scenarios are adapted to different marine conditions, each with distinct levels of technological maturity and development priorities. Furthermore, five key technologies—such as microgrid technologies for integrated offshore wind and oil and gas systems—are identified as core supports for coordinated development. Finally, this study proposes long-term development goals across three stages: theoretical research, engineering demonstration, and large-scale application. Policy recommendations are provided from the perspectives of resources, technology, and economics, offering both theoretical and practical support for the large-scale and commercial advancement of coordinated offshore wind power and oil and gas development in China.
Driven by China's carbon peaking and carbon neutralization goals as well as the strategic development of deep-offshore energy resources, energy island clusters in the South China Sea are evolving from single energy-supply nodes into integrated engineering platforms that combine multi-energy coupling, energy conversion, operational support, emergency response, and long-distance replenishment. However, the existing support model dominated by nearshore home ports is constrained by long offshore distances, complex sea conditions, extended replenishment chains, and insufficient multi-stakeholder coordination, making it difficult to support large-scale and continuous operation of deep-offshore energy island clusters. This study reviews operational support models for energy islands and offshore energy hubs in China and abroad, analyzes the capability basis and limitations of ports, island‒reef nodes, and frontier facilities in the South China Sea, and proposes a three-tier coordinated support system consisting of core home ports, relay hubs, and frontier support nodes. Based on support distance, water depth, task attributes, and response requirements, the proposed system divides the support space into a nearshore support layer, an offshore relay layer, and a deep-offshore frontier layer, corresponding respectively to integrated coordination, relay transfer, and near-field response functions. Scenario-based calculations indicate that the proposed system can reduce the response time for urgent spare-parts replenishment from approximately 51.5 h to 17.5 h, a decrease of about 66%, and reduce the arrival time for medical rescue from approximately 3.28 h to 1.43 h, a decrease of about 56.4%. Institutionally, this study recommends establishing the South China Sea Deep Blue Economic Comprehensive Pilot Zone as a coordination platform, while advancing standard sea-unit certification, three-dimensional layered sea-use rights, enclave-economy cooperation, and sea‒air emergency coordination mechanisms. The results indicate that the three-tier coordinated support system can improve the operational efficiency, emergency response capability, and system resilience of energy island clusters in the South China Sea, providing a reference for the construction of deep-offshore energy engineering support systems in China.
The strengthening of the marine sector and the realization of carbon peaking and carbon neutralization goals urgently necessitates a shift in marine energy development toward deep-sea and intensive utilization. The offshore integrated energy island (OIEI) serves as an effective solution for resolving challenges in deep-sea power consumption and achieving the diversified conversion of energy forms. Based on a summary of international OIEI development models and their current status, this study reviews China's development foundation and analyzes challenges such as institutional fragmentation, technological bottlenecks, and the absence of a business closed loop. Drawing on a source‒grid‒load‒storage‒utilization integrated philosophy, the study proposes a comprehensive development model featuring energy conversion, multi-energy complementarity, and zero-carbon services. It outlines three differentiated pathways: a nearshore shared model, a mid-to-far offshore industrial fusion model, and a deep-sea off-grid model. Multi-scenario techno-economic calculations and sensitivity analysis indicate that the economic efficiencies of the three models exhibit significant nonlinear alternating evolution characteristics with increasing offshore distances, and the commercial feasibility of off-grid energy islands in the deep sea is highly dependent on the support provided by green fuel premiums and the carbon market mechanism. The study recommends leveraging marine resource endowments to formulate medium-to-long-term plans supporting OIEI development. It calls for mastering key core technologies, such as high-efficiency energy conversion and green fuel power equipment tailored for multi-scenario applications. Furthermore, the research suggests accelerating the deep cross-sector integration of energy, marine engineering, and shipping industries, as well as establishing international certification systems for green hydrogen, ammonia, and alcohols. Additionally, it proposes perfecting a commercial guarantee mechanism driven by incentive policies and carbon markets to advance the large-scale construction and high-quality development of China's OIEIs.
Ocean thermal energy coversion (OTEC) is environmentally friendly, has huge resource reserves, and offers stable power output. However, its commercialization has been slow. The fundamental bottleneck lies in the limited natural temperature difference, which leads to existing thermal cycle efficiencies generally remaining below 5%, far lower than those of conventional thermal power plants and even other renewable energy sources. Based on a systematic review of OTEC, this study proposes a concept of ocean large-temperature-difference energy generation, leveraging ocean geothermal energy and deep cold seawater, while considering multi-level utilization such as cold energy utilization of liquefied natural gas, seawater desalination, and extraction of ocean-associated strategic minerals. It analyzes the technical and equipment feasibility of ocean large-temperature-difference energy generation, proposes an engineering model for this technology, and identifies key engineering directions: efficient thermal cycle and thermal conversion technology and equipment for ocean large-temperature-difference energy generation, equipment for harnessing ocean geothermal energy, and technical devices for extracting ocean-associated strategic minerals. The study advocates for intensified exploration of ocean geothermal energy and ocean-associated strategic mineral resources. Moreover, it is imperative to address core technologies and key equipment for ocean large-temperature-difference energy generation, seawater desalination, and the extraction of ocean-associated strategic minerals. It is also essential to expedite the establishment of demonstration projects, supplemented by precise policy and investment support, thus to promote the commercialization of ocean large-temperature-difference energy generation, facilitate the efficient and integrated utilization of ocean energy resources in China, and contribute to China's energy security and high-quality development of the marine economy.
Based on China's marine geothermal resource endowment, this study evaluates the development potentials of shallow, medium-to-deep, and high-temperature hydrothermal resources, with a focus on key technological systems, development bottlenecks, and economic constraints. On this basis, a region-specific and phased development pathway is proposed: priority demonstration of high-temperature hydrothermal utilization in the deep water of the South China Sea, cascading use of medium- and low-temperature resources in the eastern coastal zone, and forward-looking research on enhanced geothermal systems and possible mineral ‒ geothermal coupling in far-offshore areas. The study further proposes a distinctive marine “geothermal-plus” multi-energy synergistic development model, involving retrofitting of offshore oil and gas wells, wind‒solar‒geothermal hybrid systems, heat‒electricity‒ water cogeneration, and heat‒electricity‒mineral coupling under suitable high-mineralization conditions. A strategic support framework is also outlined, covering technological innovation, equipment capability enhancement, policy incentives, industrial coordination, and ecological risk control. The study aims to provide a more prudent and operational scientific basis and technological support for advancing China's marine geothermal sector from resource assessment to demonstration-scale deployment.
Against the backdrop of the carbon peaking and carbon neutralization goals, offshore wind-to-hydrogen production has garnered widespread attention. China is in the initial stages of the industrialization of offshore wind-to-hydrogen production, making comprehensive and in-depth analysis particularly crucial. Based on the development of China's offshore wind-to-hydrogen industry, this study first examines the intrinsic motivation of its development, and analyzes the overview, technological pathways, and key equipment of offshore wind-to-hydrogen projects. Assessments are conducted on the applicable scenarios and challenges of different technological pathways and key equipment, and development recommendations are proposed. The study finds that offshore wind-to-hydrogen production is an important pathway and cost-effective solution for China to achieve energy security, low-carbon transformation in coastal provinces and cities, as well as the consumption and transmission of large-scale far-offshore wind power. These benefits constitute the fundamental impetus behind China's push for offshore wind-to-hydrogen development. Currently, the global offshore wind-to-hydrogen industry focuses on verifying the feasibility of different technological pathways and key equipment. In China, the industry is guided by national major projects and dominated by large state-owned and private enterprises. Among the technological pathways, centralized offshore hydrogen production is suitable for far-offshore wind farms. In terms of key equipment, the marine environment imposes new requirements on offshore hydrogen production, storage, and transportation technologies, and a high-reliability equipment system adapted to marine scenarios still requires breakthroughs. Finally, development recommendations are proposed from three dimensions: enhancing top-level design and standards systems, fostering innovative economic incentives and a collaborative industrial ecosystem, and concentrating efforts on technological breakthroughs and talent development. Based on the analysis, this study can provide research support and pathway references for the development of China's offshore wind-to-hydrogen industry.
With technological advancement and the deepening pursuit of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality, renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power have evolved from being supplementary into mainstays of the energy system, poised to serve as its very backbone. However, wind and solar energy sources are inherently intermittent, fluctuating, and stochastic. Therefore, how to transform these energy into controllable, flexible resources has emerged as a pressing scientific and engineering challenge. This study reviews the challenges confronting the high-level development and utilization of wind and solar renewables, sets forth pathways and key strategies for converting their intermittency, volatility, and randomness into flexibility, and offers concrete policy recommendations. The study proposes that, by adhering to the overarching approach of strengthening coordinated interaction among "source, grid, load, and storage," and by advancing renewable energy development alongside conventional power source retrofitting, enhancing the grid's capacity for resource allocation, improving precision monitoring and demand response of diversified loads, and establishing a hierarchical, diversified energy storage regulation system, the intrinsic characteristics of wind and solar energy can be fundamentally reshaped, enabling their high-level exploitation. The study further recommends refining relevant laws, regulations, and policy frameworks; optimizing support policies for distributed renewable energy; enhancing zero-carbon benefits from centralized renewable development; deepening power sector reforms; deploying grid infrastructure with moderate foresight; unlocking the potentials of various flexibility resources; continuously accelerating innovation in key renewable technologies; and strengthening policy coordination and oversight, so as to drive the high-quality development and utilization of wind and solar renewables and advance the goals of carbon peaking, carbon neutrality, and building an energy-strong nation.
China's deep-seated strategic mineral resources are sparsely distributed and heavily reliant on imports from abroad. Promoting the coordinated exploitation of multi-type mineral resources in deep strata is significant for safeguarding national energy and resource security. This study focuses on pathways for multi-resource synergistic development, employing an integrated methodology that combines comprehensive analysis, multi-objective spatial optimization, and case studies in representative regions. It analyzes the spatial distribution characteristics of six critical mineral resources: lithium salts, potassium salts, helium, sandstone-type uranium, rubidium salts, and strontium salts, and explores their coupled exploitation mechanisms with oil/gas and geothermal resource. Strategic advantages and technical challenges for deep mineral resource synergistic mining in China are identified. This study incorporates multi-resource symbiotic relationships into mining sequence decision-making frameworks. A two-dimensional optimization methodology integrating "spatiotemporal alignment" and "efficiency synergy" is developed to overcome limitations of conventional single-resource exploitation paradigms. Through multi-source collaborative three-dimensional exploration, multi-dimensional comprehensive evaluation, and two-dimensional coordinated development, the implementation path of prioritized layout in resource-rich areas and coordinated development of industrial chains is clarified. Specific scenarios for collaborative mining of oil, gas, geothermal, and multi-type minerals are creatively constructed, and technical routes are formulated to improve the resource utilization rate and reduce mining costs under different scenarios. Demonstration projects and industrialization potentials are defined, and a strategic layout for the centralized, coordinated, and orderly development of industrial chains is formed. This study provides actionable theoretical support and practical models for the integrated development of deep mineral resources.
This study analyzes the technological challenges and development pathways of deep-sea green mining, aiming to construct a technology system oriented toward commercial development and provide theoretical support for China's deep-sea resource development strategy. Based on the whole-process technical indicators and green paradigm of "prospecting ‒ mining ‒ transportation ‒ processing," the study investigates key breakthrough directions and engineering paths for deep-sea green mining from four dimensions: environmental disturbance control, intelligent system coordination, energy structure optimization, and system integration verification. The research proposes a whole-process technical evaluation system covering five categories of indicators—green, economic, reliable, intelligent, and safe—and constructs a green mining paradigm classification model based on resource efficiency, environmental impact, and energy structure. It also identifies systematic challenges in technology integration, environmental adaptability, energy supply, and monitoring and evaluation for deep-sea mining. Furthermore, the study clarifies future key breakthrough directions such as precision collection, digital twin systems, deep-sea hybrid energy supply, and modular integration. The findings indicate that achieving deep-sea green mining urgently requires coordinated advancement in three major directions: green, intelligent, and systematic development. This can be accelerated through land-based and pilot-scale testing platforms to promote technology integration and engineering transformation, alongside strengthened international standardization and data collaboration, thereby advancing deep-sea mining from technological exploration toward a new stage of green, safe, and sustainable commercial development.
Driven by the carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals as well as the accelerated development of new quality productive forces, the supply-demand tension of critical metals has become increasingly pronounced. As a strategic successor resource, deep-sea polymetallic nodules are entering a pivotal transition from pilot trials to commercial exploitation. However, seabed collection equipment still faces significant technical bottlenecks in long-duration continuous operation, collection efficiency, adaptability to complex environments, and low-disturbance control, which have become key obstacles restricting the commercial development of deep-sea polymetallic nodules in China. This study focuses on the emerging development needs of key seabed collection technologies for the commercialization of deep-sea mining and, centering on tracked seabed mining vehicles, conducts a systematic review across four core dimensions: mobility theory and methods for mining vehicles, operational path planning, high-efficiency nodule collection technologies, and seabed disturbance mechanisms with low-impact control. Moreover, considering the multiple technical demands of commercial development for production scale, adaptability to complex seabed conditions, long-duration continuous operation, and ecological compliance, the study identifies the key technical obstacles that hinder commercial deployment. Four priority research directions are further proposed: long-duration continuous locomotion technologies for mining vehicles, graded assessment of mining areas with long-duration continuous collection planning, efficient and low-energy continuous harvesting under complex seabed topography, and mechanistic understanding of sediment bonding-disaggregation coupled with low-disturbance mining strategies. This study aims to clarify the core technological targets for deep-sea polymetallic nodule seabed collection and to provide guidance for establishing an independent and controllable technical system tailored to commercial needs, thereby laying the foundation for the large-scale, economically viable, and environmentally responsible development of deep-sea polymetallic nodules in China and offering important practical significance for safeguarding national strategic resource security.
Abundant mineral resources exist in the deep sea. However, in current deep-sea mining practices in China and abroad, tailwater is generally discharged directly into the middle layer of the ocean, leading to large-scale midwater plumes; and the carbon emissions of mother ships are extremely high. These have become core environmental bottlenecks restricting commercial deep-sea mining. To address these challenges, the study proposes a novel model for commercial deep-sea mining that leverages the green and low-carbon utilization of tailwater and exhaust gas. This model innovatively integrates source control with resource recovery, establishing a systematic pathway of "midwater plume control‒resource transformation‒synergistic enhancement." Based on the physicochemical properties of tailing mineral sludge, a safe treatment system encompassing "efficient flocculation‒pressure filtration and dewatering‒leaching desalination-heavy metal stabilization" is developed to prevent the formation of midwater plumes at the source, achieving solid-liquid separation, desalination, and harmless treatment of the sludge. Shipboard carbon capture and deep-sea sequestration technologies are integrated, capitalizing on the high-pressure and low-temperature conditions of the deep sea to realize mineralized sequestration of carbon dioxide in the form of hydrates. Carbon trading mechanisms are further incorporated to improve economic feasibility. The results indicate that, after safe treatment, the moisture content, salinity, and heavy metal concentrations in the tailing mineral sludge are significantly reduced, enabling its use in agricultural soils of islands and reefs, eco-friendly construction materials for island-reef systems, and daily chemical products, thereby creating considerable economic values. In parallel, the deep integration of exhaust gas carbon sequestration with mining operations minimizes redundant equipment and energy allocation, enhancing the overall operational efficiency of the system. Moreover, it offers a scalable technical solution for the low-carbon transition of marine engineering systems. The study also outlines future technological directions for the green and low-carbon utilization of tailwater and exhaust gas in commercial deep-sea mining. These include a safe treatment system for tailing mineral sludge aimed for large-scale commercial mining, coordinated development of deep-sea mining and agricultural cultivation on islands and reefs, green building material preparation technologies adapted to island and reef environments, integrated technologies for exhaust gas treatment and carbon sequestration, as well as technologies for producing high-quality daily chemical products from tailing mineral sludge. By establishing a circular system that integrates deep-sea mining, resource transformation, and industrial synergy, this study provides a systematic solution to overcome the environmental constraints in the commercial development of deep-sea resources, contributing an efficient technological paradigm to the global blue economy.
During the long-term large-scale development of China’s mineral resources, a vast three-dimensional space both above and under the ground has been formed. Accelerating the energy-oriented and low-carbon utilization of the three-dimensional space of mines is conducive to supporting the green and low-carbon transformation of the mining industry and building a new energy system. This is also crucial for achieving the carbon peaking and carbon neutralization goals as well as ensuring national energy security. This study defines the concept of a three-dimensional space in mines and expounds on the implications of energy-oriented and low-carbon utilization. The current scales and future potentials of various spaces in China’s mines are calculated, and the potentials for energy-oriented and low-carbon utilization approaches such as wind and solar power generation, carbon sequestration, and carbon storage are further calculated. Based on the major characteristics of the three-dimensional spaces of mines, the study summarizes five typical utilization modes, namely energy development, energy storage, resource reserve, green expansion and carbon reduction, as well as “science, education, culture, health, and tourism” development. It also analyzes the current utilization status and problems, and proposes a strategic concept with an overall approach and stage objectives. Moreover, the study establishes a strategic framework consisting of “five utilization” paths, including storage and utilization of strategic resources, direct utilization of energy resources, conversion and utilization of power generation and energy storage, carbon reduction‒zero carbon‒negative carbon utilization, as well as integrated and collaborative utilization. An energy-oriented and low-carbon utilization technology system covering spatial exploration and assessment, restoration and management, energy-oriented utilization, low-carbon utilization, and safety assurance is established. Finally, policy recommendations are proposed, including deepening the preliminary survey of three-dimensional space resources in mines, clarifying spatial ownership, improving the planning system, strengthening support for scientific and technological innovation, and constructing key demonstration projects.
As major global consumers and producers of mineral resources, China and Russia possess distinct complementary advantages and significant potentials for cooperation. The Russian Far East is a core region for mineral resource enrichment and has significant geographic advantages, making it a vital potential source of mineral resources for China. Consequently, it is imperative to strengthen forward-looking research on China‒Russia cooperation regarding the development of mineral resources in this region. Based on field research, literature reviews, and questionnaire surveys, this study outlines the current status and potentials of mineral resource development in the Russian Far East, identifies opportunities for China‒Russian cooperation in exploiting these resources, clarifies the current status of collaborative efforts between China and Russia in this sector, and examines the potential constraints on such cooperation, including harsh climatic conditions, underdeveloped infrastructure, labor shortages, policy instability, and geographic factors that introduce uncertainty into collaborative endeavors. Furthermore, the study proposes a strategic framework for China‒Russia cooperation in developing the mineral resources in the Russian Far East. This framework, targeting specific key minerals and regions, entails implementing a strategic layout for industrial cooperation that encompasses integrated industrial parks for the mining, beneficiation, and smelting of bulk mineral resources; regional refining enterprises and cross-border processing bases; integrated mining and beneficiation industrial parks oriented primarily toward the export of raw products; and industrial clusters for the supply of machinery equipment and raw materials. Furthermore, collaborative development measures are proposed, including establishing dedicated cooperation mechanisms for mineral resources, creating specialized administrative bodies for mineral investment affairs, fostering collaboration in science, technology, and education, establishing financing platforms and exclusive settlement channels, and developing information service platforms for mineral resources. These measures aim to deepen and solidify China‒Russia cooperation in the mineral resource sector within the Russian Far East.
The large aircraft industry chain is the foundation of large aircraft manufacturing capabilities, an important guarantee for the development of modern transportation and the national economy, and a significant symbol of a country's industrial strength and technological innovation level. In the new global political and economic environment, China's large aircraft supply chain is facing bottleneck risks, and strengthening the independent construction of China's large aircraft industry chain becomes urgent. This study explores the significance of the large aircraft industry chain, reviews the evolution of the global large aircraft industry chain, and elaborates on the hierarchical structure of the industry chain and its current supporting ecosystem, centering on three core components: air-frame structure, air-engine, and airborne systems. In response to emerging global trends, we analyze the risks in the large aircraft industry chain and the necessity for independent development, and further identify the key technologies and their research directions critical for establishing an independent large aircraft industry chain. Given the complexity, long-term nature, and arduousness of the independent development of the large aircraft industry chain, it is recommended to increase national policy support and guidance, leverage the sustained commitment of the national system, plan independent projects for systematic promotion, and increase industry support for tiered cultivation.
The advanced trainer aircraft represent the high-end category within trainer aircraft, primarily used for military flight personnel training regarding advanced flight maneuvering techniques and initial tactical training missions. The advanced trainer aircraft involve multiple specialized domains, such as military flight training, pilot development, flight crew cultivation, use of new aviation weaponry, and combat support. These aircraft are characterized by significant flight training and technological risks, high economic requirements, and lengthy development cycles. Therefore, it is necessary to formulate viable development roadmaps for the high-quality development of these aircraft. This study examines the importance in developing the advanced trainer aircraft, summarizes their development courses in China and abroad, and identifies several key technologies in their design and deployment. These technologies include conceptual design, aerodynamic design, engine selection, flight safety assurance, trainer's cockpit design and control systems, ground-based integrated training, as well as air‒ground integrated and airborne embedded training systems. The analysis further addresses prevailing challenges in the current development. It is proposed that development of the advanced trainer aircraft must serve the combat capability generation for new aviation weaponry, requirements for military aviation flight training, cultivation of military aviation talents, and enhancement of training and operational capabilities for military aviation units. Corresponding development recommendations are provided, including establishing and optimizing a comprehensive development plan and model family for the advanced trainer aircraft; establishing a robust mechanism for collaborative development; sustaining efforts in the research, production, and service support of the aircraft; deepening pre-research in advanced trainer aircraft development and flight training methodologies; promoting the integration of artificial intelligence; and developing small- and medium-thrust aero-engine technologies.
Yangtze River shipping constitutes a core component of the comprehensive transportation system and the integrated utilization of water resources. Its modernization is an inevitable requirement for boosting China's strength in transportation and realizing Chinese path to modernization. From the perspectives of demand, goals, economic circulation, practical exploration, and comparative analysis, this study analyzes the new requirements confronting the development of Yangtze River shipping. From the dimensions of national territorial spatial planning, regional coordinated development, provincial economic layout, and construction of the comprehensive three-dimensional transportation network, it investigates the functional orientation of the Yangtze River shipping in the new era, which is defined as: the main artery facilitating unimpeded circulation of the national economy, the primary support for regional coordinated development, the backbone of the Yangtze River Delta‒Chengdu‒Chongqing transportation axis, the main channel for national domestic trade transportation, the core arena for construction of a beautiful China, and the leading force driving the high-quality development of inland waterway shipping. Furthermore, this study elaborates on the goals of Yangtze River shipping modernization, proposes phased development objectives covering the medium-term and long-term periods, and explores the pathways for advancing its modernization. The research recommends proactive measures in the following aspects: "hard connectivity" of infrastructure, "soft upgrading" of transportation services, improving industry governance efficiency, building a unified and open shipping market, strengthening safety safeguards, promoting green and low-carbon transformation, empowering smart development, and supporting regional coordinated development. Meanwhile, it is essential to strengthen supporting mechanisms including top-level design, pilot demonstration, implementation promotion, talent cultivation, policy support, and multi-stakeholder collaboration, so as to facilitate the high-quality advancement of Yangtze River shipping modernization.
Complex systems in the intelligent era are characterized by multi-domain interconnection and deep integration of human, machine, and things. Operating in open, dynamic, and even adversarial environments, these systems are exposed to multi-dimensional disturbance threats, posing severe challenges to their survivability and usability. To address the limitations of classical systems engineering theories and methods in handling uncertainties and sudden disturbances, this study proposes a concept of resilience systems engineering and constructs its methodological framework. It explores the paradigm of "built-in resilience design" during the system design phase, aiming to enhance the continuous operation, adaptive, and evolutionary capabilities of complex systems. Moreover, the study sorts out the multidisciplinary definitions of resilience, clarifies the classification of disturbance factors and the division of resilience capability phases, and compares the differences between resilience and other related concepts such as fault tolerance, survivability, security, and robustness. On the basis of classical systems engineering theories and methods, this study introduces the theoretical elements of resilience, proposes the concept and methodological process of resilience systems engineering, and integrates resilience capabilities (including prevention, resistance, adaptation, recovery, and evolution) into the full lifecycle design of systems. A resilience measurement framework is established, which covers both general indicators and domain-specific indicators, and consists of quantitative and qualitative evaluation dimensions. Taking the autonomous cruise robot system as a case study, the study elaborates on the application process of the resilience systems engineering method. Focusing on typical fields including power energy systems, information and communication networks, unmanned intelligent systems, and supply chain networks, this study discusses the engineering exploration of resilience theories and methods, and further analyzes the challenges faced in their practical implementation. Through continuous theoretical innovation, methodological improvement, and engineering practices, resilience systems engineering is expected to evolve into a new paradigm of systems engineering, providing solid theoretical and methodological support for the safe, reliable, and continuous operation of critical infrastructure, intelligent unmanned equipment, and complex systems.
Green low-carbon methanol, as a liquid energy carrier, is well suited to China's resource endowment of abundant wind, solar, and coal resources and to its current energy structure. It has a realistic basis and strategic value for large-scale and low-carbon development. The development of green low-carbon methanol can contribute to solving several key challenges in an integrated manner, including clean utilization of coal, soil improvement, renewable energy consumption, reduced dependence on imported oil, and carbon neutrality. It also enables the coordinated integration of conventional energy, renewable energy, food production, and ecological governance. This study focuses on the emission reduction potential of green low-carbon methanol in the context of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality. It examines the advantages of green low-carbon methanol in end-use substitution across transportation, industrial, and agricultural sectors. Moreover, it proposes pathways for the low-carbon transformation of conventional coal-to-methanol production and develops a blueprint for a methanol economy covering low-carbon production, soil improvement, long-distance transportation, and multi-scenario application. The study further provides recommendations in six aspects: production pathway optimization, expansion of end-use application, transportation system construction, adjustment of carbon emission accounting methods, formulation of standards for civilian use, and reconstruction of methanol's energy attributes. From the perspective of new energy, it proposes the establishment of a regulatory and standardization system for methanol to promote the transition from coal-based methanol to green low-carbon methanol integrated with renewable energy and soil improvement. The development of green low-carbon methanol can provide an important support for China in diversifying its energy structure, safeguarding its energy and food security, and gradually achieving the carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals.
The intelligent construction of water conservancy projects is a product of in-depth integration of digital technologies with conventional water conservancy projects. Its core value is reflected not only in the innovation of technical tools, but more importantly in promoting the upgrading of industry paradigms through the reconstruction of theoretical systems, thereby helping the water conservancy industry achieve its leap from “conventional construction” to “smart services.” This study expounds on the basic concepts of intelligent construction of water conservancy projects, including its definition, core characteristics, and evolution. It examines the cognitive thinking, methodological logic, and practical framework of intelligent construction of water conservancy projects from the perspectives of systems philosophy and artificial intelligence (AI) philosophy. Moreover, the study constructs a theoretical system from the perspectives of complex systems theory, data science, systems engineering, and coordination of these three aspects. Specifically, the complex systems theory provides a cognitive paradigm for analyzing the complexity of water conservancy projects; principles of data science constitute the “engine” for intelligent decision-making in these projects; and systems engineering methods support the lifecycle collaboration of the projects. Furthermore, it proposes a technical system that covers elements such as intelligent perception, data fusion and analysis, intelligent decision-making and control, intelligent construction equipment, lifecycle collaboration, intelligent materials, and green construction, and clarifies the functions and logical relationships of these technologies. Looking forward, practical actions can be taken in the following aspects: expanding the depth and breadth of interdisciplinary integration, deepening the integration of data-driven and physical mechanisms, improving the adaptability of AI technology to complex working conditions, realizing the integration of design ‒ construction ‒ operation digital models, and promoting the standardization of intelligent construction technologies. These efforts will provide solid support for improving the national water security and sustainable development of China.
Polar regions are characterized by extreme environmental conditions such as ultra-low temperatures, severe snowstorms, polar days and nights, thick ice sheets, and permafrost. Polar engineering serves as a critical vehicle for scientific research, national strategy, energy transition, and international cooperation. The advancement of polar engineering construction represents a significant endeavor to push the limits of nature. Reviewing the current state and trends of polar engineering construction and establishing a forward-looking cognitive framework hold theoretical, technological, and strategic values. Based on the summary of domestic and international developments and experiences in polar engineering construction, this study identifies key challenges in areas such as engineering adaptability, energy supply, construction efficiency, self-sufficiency, ecological environment, and the supporting systems of standards and regulations. It further outlines development trends including mission-driven expansion and functional diversification, geographical and environmental extension, intelligent and sustainable development, international collaboration and rule-making, as well as extraterrestrial exploration and the extension of human civilization. Building on this, the study proposes a development framework for polar engineering construction. The framework is centered on demand-driven approaches, technology-enabled advancement, green constraints, and collaborative construction, and is supported by pillars such as standards and regulations, talent and organizational structures, digitalization, and data governance. Under the strategic orientation of "grounded in Antarctica, expanding in the Arctic, and engaging internationally," the study elaborates on development goals including supporting cutting-edge scientific research, enabling the attainment of independent and controllable technologies, advancing international demonstrations for carbon control, and promoting the joint establishment and governance of international rules. Additionally, the study recommends proactive actions in macro-level strategy and policy formulation, technology systems and research and development roadmaps, engineering demonstration and infrastructure development, as well as international collaboration and governance standards. These efforts aim to enhance the comprehensive capacity of polar engineering construction and facilitate its evolution from engineering validation to systematic development, thereby establishing it as a key technological cornerstone for the extension of human civilization into broader frontiers.
Confronting the low recycling rate of construction and demolition wastes (CDWs) and the improper disposal that can easily trigger environmental and safety risks, this study proposes a forward‒reverse synergy reclamation theory for CDWs, aiming to break the bottlenecks of overemphasizing end-of-pipe treatment while underestimating source reduction and market incentives. The study integrates a "forward" recycling approach centered on end-of-pipe disposal with a "reverse" recycling approach driven by source reduction and market demand, and expands the theoretical connotation that centers on dynamic feedback, interest coordination, and risk control. Furthermore, implementation pathways are designed across technical, policy, and market dimensions. Technically, it is proposed to optimize pretreatment technologies, build disassemblable, reconfigurable, and modular production lines, develop high-value-added recycled products, and expand hub-based disposal technologies. In terms of policies, the standards system should be improved to establish cross-regional mechanisms for incentive/penalty linkage, benefit distribution, and coordination. As for market pathways, it is suggested to establish green certification systems, innovate government‒market collaboration models, and incorporate production enterprises into the carbon trading system. Under this theoretical framework, the study proposes a positive resource recovery rate as a novel evaluation indicator. A case study of Shanghai demonstrates the empirical application of the indicator, revealing that the current positive resource recovery rate for CDWs in Shanghai is only 39.3%. The positive resource recovery rate is universally applicable and can serve as a methodological tool for systematically assessing the recycling effectiveness across different regions. The forward‒reverse synergy reclamation theory for CDWs provides a fundamental support for the construction of zero-waste cities and for achieving the interim target of a 55% CDW recycling rate by 2030, contributing to the systemic transformation in CDW recycling management.
The “four water-based controls” principle (i.e., defining city, land, population, and industry based on water) is a cornerstone of water resource management in China in the new era. To advance its application from theory to practice, a comprehensive, closed-loop technical framework must be established to resolve the critical conflict between water scarcity and socioeconomic development alongside ecological conservation. This study analyzes the core essence of the “four water-based controls” principle, and establishes a “smart monitoring ‒ risk assessment ‒ early warning regulation” technical framework. It also designs a dual-evaluation indicator system combining binding and anticipatory metrics, and constructs a smart monitoring system featuring space ‒ air ‒ ground ‒ water ‒ engineering integration and a three-dimensional “point ‒ area” approach. The dual-evaluation approach is employed to conduct risk assessment and early warning diagnosis. The study further proposes a dual-state response mechanism encompassing both routine and emergency scenarios. This response mechanism centers on water conservation for efficiency enhancement, regulatory control for institutional development, and resource expansion for supply assurance, and is integrated into the dynamic early-warning regulation pathway of the “four water-based controls” framework. An empirical study conducted in Ordos, a water-scarce city, identifies that expected indicators in risk areas require particular attention to the aspects of determining the city’s land use and production based on water availability. Based on this, targeted countermeasures are proposed. This study provides a theoretical framework and practical reference for implementing the “four water-based controls” principle and enhancing water conservation and intensive utilization.
With the popularization of new energy vehicles and the advancement of transportation‒energy integration, vehicle-to-grid (V2G) interaction has become an important technological pathway for tapping the flexible resources of vehicle‒pile/station systems and for supporting the construction of new-type power systems. This study reviews the status of V2G infrastructure and applications, involving charging infrastructure, V2G platform technology systems and data security, V2G demonstration applications, and related international progress and experience. It also summarizes the research progress of key V2G technologies from there perspectives: hardware devices, resource management and regulation, and key technology layout and innovation trends. Specifically, the research progress regarding hardware devices involves bidirectional charging piles, power battery charge/discharge safety management, as well as information communication and privacy protection. The research progress in terms of resource management and regulation includes (1) flexible resource aggregation and modeling of electric vehicles, (2) optimization of integrated vehicle‒pile/station operation and dispatching, (3) coordinated control and joint dispatching between piles/stations and power distribution grids, (4) station siting and capacity planning optimization, and (5) coordinated operation of green parks and distributed energy systems. Additionally, challenges faced by large-scale V2G deployment are clarified, including battery life and safety constraints on the vehicle side, interoperability and performance shortcomings on the pile side, and inadequate data support and market mechanisms on the grid side. Based on this, the study elaborates on a phased development pathway for large-scale V2G deployment and identifies two key technologies: AI-driven optimal utilization of resources and coordinated operation of transportation‒energy integrated systems. Finally, it proposes the following recommendations: (1) building an intelligent, interconnected, and standardized infrastructure system; (2) emphasizing key technological breakthroughs and demonstration applications; (3) strengthening data security governance and system resilience; (4) improving market rules and business models; and (5) establishing cross-sector policy coordination mechanisms, thereby providing theoretical support and decision-making references for deepening V2G research and enabling its large-scale deployment.