On January 30, 2026, researchers and students from the Research Centre for Artificial Intelligence in Geomatics (RCAIG) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University convened for the fifth monthly workshop series. Hosted by Prof. Qihao Weng, Chair Professor of Geomatics and Artificial Intelligence, and chaired by Dr. Ali Ismaeel, Research Assistant Professor, the series serves as a dynamic platform for showcasing cutting-edge advancements at the intersection of geomatics and AI.
The session featured a series of insightful presentations by the center's postdocs. Dr. Baoling Gui demonstrated that while climate warming enhances the cooling potential of urban vegetation, it simultaneously limits the likelihood of reliably achieving this effect. Dr. Binbin Li presented the use of ICESat-2 laser altimeter data and other remote sensing products to quantify the potential submergence of major global river deltas. Dr. Rui Sun presented updated pan-tropical results demonstrating that post-deforestation fire is a key, time-dependent process that systematically reshapes warming trajectories. Dr. Yijie Wu explored intercity and intracity morphological similarity and its association with local temperature.
Furthering the discussion, Dr. Xiaoyan Lu shared her research on the fusion of RGB imagery and depth information, emphasizing how visual and depth estimation foundation models can be utilized for large-scale mapping. Dr. Kalingga Titon Nur Ihsan proposed a framework for integrating geostationary satellite data with 3D building models to optimize Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) capacity, while Dr. Peiyi Yin investigated the mechanisms underlying phenological changes in the Northern Hemisphere, highlighting the need for precise extraction definitions.
The workshop also showcased the work of the center’s Ph.D. candidates. Miss Lihong Wang examined the relationship between climate factors and forest phenology, while Mr. Weipeng Lu shared progress on expanding his research to 10 major urban agglomerations across East Asia. Mr. Ziyun Yan introduced self-distillation techniques for remote sensing time-series analysis, achieving higher LULC classification accuracy. Mr. Xin Li concluded the presentations by discussing how the microclimatic edge effects of urban green spaces influence cooling efficiency.
Throughout the workshop, Prof. Qihao Weng played a pivotal role in steering the academic dialogue. Following each presentation, he provided detailed feedback and constructive guidance, helping researchers refine their methodologies and theoretical frameworks.
The workshop concluded with a vibrant discussion, where members exchanged ideas on the future of AI-driven geomatic research. By bringing together diverse expertise, the RCAIG continues to foster a culture of academic excellence and innovation.
