Mapping technology developed by Chinese University of Hong Kong to aid urban planning for ‘Belt and Road’ investors
University devises and patents faster and more accurate method for producing digital maps, which can speed up process from months to days, researchers say
Mapping data for 80 cities in 20 countries included in the “Belt and Road Initiative” will be digitised for the first time thanks to a faster and more accurate data collection method developed by a Hong Kong university.
The new technology, which combines satellite imagery and crowd-sourced data to produce detailed and accurate maps, will enable policymakers, city planners and scientists to build smarter cities, according to the Chinese University of Hong Kong, which has developed and patented the method.
Currently, urban geographical data is lacking for many developing nations in the China-led trade and commerce strategy, which aims to revive ancient trade routes through more than 60 countries as far as Africa and Europe.
Data such as that for a country’s land surface characteristics, building density, land use and distribution of energy use are crucial in helping governments and scientists tackle urban challenges and climate problems, Chinese University researchers said.
“In an increasingly urbanised world, cities are vulnerable to more unpredictable weather extremes which can bring about problems such as the urban heat island effect and air pollution. This new technology and method can help provide a missing link to meet the needs of the scientific community and urban planners,” said Ren Chao, an associate professor at the university’s Institute of Future Cities.
Ren said the data would also be useful in helping investors understand the basic characteristics of a city, especially those firms hoping to cash in on infrastructure projects in developing nations where data and information are not readily available.