In its ongoing commitment to environmental conservation, Lenovo, in collaboration with the National Geographic Channel, announced the launch of the world’s first Yangtze finless porpoise tracking map and viewing guide. This follows the success of their groundbreaking adoption and rewilding efforts for the porpoise known as “No. 1575.”
Pioneering Conservation Efforts
On October 22, 2024, at the Workshop on Conservation of Global Endangered Small Cetaceans in Wuhan, China, cetacean experts from around the globe convened to address critical conservation challenges. During the workshop, Lenovo presented the newly released tracking map and viewing guide, highlighting its commitment to biodiversity conservation and public education. This initiative aims to galvanize global efforts to protect endangered cetaceans and promote awareness and engagement in conservation practices worldwide. As an official partner of the Wuhan Baiji Dolphin Conservation Foundation, Lenovo also shared its innovative conservation plan for the Yangtze finless porpoise during the roundtable discussion.
Harnessing AI for Conservation
“We believe in ‘AI for Good.’ We aim to use our AI capabilities to meet real-world needs and take on the responsibility of protecting our planet and maintaining biodiversity,” said Xiangbo Lv, Wuhan L&D center lead at Lenovo Research, emphasizing the company’s dedication to leveraging AI and technology for environmental protection.
Since the “Chasing the Yangtze Finless Porpoise Plan” launched in 2023, Lenovo and the National Geographic Channel harnessed their strengths in technological innovation and natural science communication to bring this project to fruition. Lenovo provided powerful computing support through AI PCs and other smart devices to the production team, enabling efficient data analysis and monitoring. This significantly enhanced the efficiency and precision of data processing. Additionally, Lenovo contributed many practical suggestions for developing the tracking map and viewing guide, drawing on its extensive experience in environmental monitoring.
Bringing the Public Closer to Nature
The Yangtze finless porpoise serves as a key indicator species for the health of the Yangtze River ecosystem. With ongoing conservation efforts, the population of these porpoises is steadily increasing. The tracking map and viewing guide provide a unique opportunity for the public to engage with these remarkable creatures.
The map meticulously summarizes suitable observation points for the public to view the Yangtze finless porpoise. The carefully designed guide spans nearly 2,000 kilometers and features five major tracking routes. It seamlessly merges porpoise tracking with scenic tours, detailing specific locations, optimal viewing times, and photography tips. This journey not only showcases the region’s natural beauty but also incorporates rich historical, cultural, and culinary experiences, making it an enriching adventure for everyone.
Lenovo’s Commitment to Biodiversity
The Yangtze finless porpoise tracking map and viewing guide is part of Lenovo’s broader commitment to biodiversity conservation. Since 2021, Lenovo has actively engaged in protecting the Yangtze River’s flagship species. In 2022, the company donated a customized smart IT ecological protection solution for the Yangtze finless porpoise population study at Tian’e Zhou Reserve, addressing long-standing “data challenges” faced by the conservation area and enhancing its management capabilities.
Additionally, in collaboration with Chinese National Geographic Channel and the Shanghai Natural History Museum, Lenovo launched the “Song of the Yangtze River” series. This initiative combines documentaries, on-site ecological exhibitions, and professional seminars to raise public awareness about the Yangtze’s biodiversity and ecological protection.
Notably, the Lenovo Yangtze biodiversity project has been nominated for the 2024 Paulson Prize for Sustainability, which recognizes innovative and replicable solutions within China that offer both economic and environmental benefits. This nomination is significant as it underscores Lenovo’s role in addressing some of the world’s most pressing climate and biodiversity challenges.
Through these efforts, Lenovo demonstrates how a technology company can play a crucial role in environmental conservation. By integrating technology with conservation, Lenovo aims to provide innovative solutions to safeguard our planet’s precious ecosystems.
A Call to Action
The release of the Yangtze finless porpoise tracking map and viewing guide marks a significant milestone in global conservation efforts. It invites individuals worldwide to engage with and support the conservation of these incredible animals. Lenovo encourages everyone to explore the tracking map and guide, empowering individuals to join the collective effort to protect these remarkable creatures and their habitats. Join us in this heartfelt journey to protect the Yangtze finless porpoise and preserve our natural heritage for generations to come.