Drones reducing costs while boosting efficiency

Nation's UAV market is forecast to surpass 600 bln yuan by 2029

BEIJING — In China's ambitious bid to reclaim its vast, arid landscapes, drones have emerged as powerful tools, flying over the Kubuqi Desert each spring, autumn and winter to spread seeds, reinforce windbreaks and rejuvenate fragile ecosystems.

Li Ting, a millennial with a decade of experience in desertification control, has witnessed firsthand how unmanned aerial vehicles are transforming both the landscape and the approach to combating desertification.

"It has not only reduced the reliance on manual labor, but also significantly lowered operational costs and boosted efficiency. Drones allow workers to carry out their tasks regardless of weather conditions, as long as extreme weather does not occur," Li said.