Path of low−altitude economy driving new productive forces in geological exploration

This paper is the result of geological survey engineering.

Objective Based on the “543 Framework” proposed in “China’s 2024 Low−Altitude Economy Scenario White Paper”, this study systematically explored the development trajectory and strategic positioning of the geological exploration (geo−exploration) industry within the emerging low−altitude economy. Our study aimed to investigate the unique advantages of geo−exploration in low−altitude economy and the opportunities and challenges ahead, clarify the extension and integration direction of geo−exploration, and provide a theoretical basis for achieving high−quality development.

Methods A combined approach of literature analysis and case study was adopted in this study. Specifically, the “543 Framework” was employed to construct a logical model for the integration of geo−exploration with the low−altitude economy. Furthermore, representative cases were examined to validate the “policy−technology−industry” collaborative development pathway and to propose targeted implementation strategies.

Results The geo−exploration industry possessed distinctive strengths in spatial information acquisition, resource monitoring, and data processing, which effectively supported the application expansion of the low−altitude economy. Meanwhile, the low−altitude economy created opportunities for the geo−exploration industry to extend its value chain and broaden service fields, though challenges remain, including underdeveloped regulatory frameworks, insufficient technological breakthroughs, and an incomplete industrial ecosystem. Some case studies further demonstrated that the ‘policy−technology−industry’ synergy significantly facilitated a deep integration between geo−exploration and low−altitude economy.

Conclusions The rapid development of the low−altitude economy provided strategic opportunities for the geo−exploration industry. The geo−exploration industry can achieve a transition from traditional resource exploration to diversified service provision, as well as achieve sustainable, high−quality development under the guidance of the “543 Framework”, through strengthening policy guidance, fostering technological innovation, and promoting industrial collaboration.