Garden on the Great Wall—A Sustainable Solution for the Plants on the Top Surface of the Great Wall Heritage Site

Round 1

Reviewer 1 Report

This is an important and interesting contribution to sustainability of built cultural heritage. Has potential to be impactful. Commentor recommendations:

Needs another careful proofread, typographical errors (most involve spacing, might be a formatting issue).

P. 2 Before referencing Hadrian's Wall, mention 'it is a good example' or some other transitional language. Or, add a section header. 

p. 5 Graphics are very good but font a little small on maps. Consider separating those and presenting as stand alone figures.

p. 5-6 A table listing specific plant species would be good. 

P. 7. List the species of plants to be removed, retained, etc.

p. 8. 'Disease' in the figure is a bit unclear. Does 'disease' mean 'plant-related damage'? 

pp. 8-10. Some illustrative photos of the wall top would be useful. 

P. 10. Implementation section. Should mention the ways that the differing climate along sections of the Great Wall will affect recommendations. Also, should mention climate change (briefly). Paper is generalizing broadly, a useful recommendation for next phase of research is to understand how differing climates and plant ecosystems will influence decisionmaking for 'soft cap' techniques. 

Language is good but typographical errors need to be corrected. One more careful proofread is needed.  

Author Response

Please see the attachment.

Author Response File: Author Response.pdf

Reviewer 2 Report

1. In summary, the research presents a thoughtful and innovative approach to the preservation of the Great Wall, offering methods that could be applicable to other heritage sites. Its emphasis on a balance between structural integrity and ecological sustainability marks a significant contribution to the field of cultural heritage conservation. Purpose and Relevance: The study addresses a critical aspect of cultural heritage preservation, focusing on the Great Wall of China, a site of immense historical and cultural significance. By examining the impact of vegetation on the structure and exploring methods for its management, the research aligns well with the broader objectives of heritage conservation and sustainable maintenance. This topic is of high relevance, considering the ongoing challenges in preserving such ancient structures amidst natural and anthropogenic pressures. Methodological Approach: The research methodology, involving preliminary field research and the development of specific techniques for vegetation management and 'soft capping', appears sound and pragmatic. However, the success of these methods largely depends on their implementation and the consideration of environmental factors. Further elaboration on the technical aspects and comparative analysis with other heritage sites would strengthen the research's methodological foundation. Academic Impact: This study contributes significantly to the field of cultural heritage preservation, particularly in the context of ancient monumental structures like the Great Wall. The insights gained from this research could be valuable for similar conservation efforts globally. The focus on integrating environmental and structural preservation is especially pertinent in the current era of climate change and ecological awareness. Novelty and Innovation: The concept of 'soft capping' and the idea of creating a 'Garden on the Great Wall' are innovative, blending traditional conservation techniques with modern ecological and landscaping principles. This approach not only serves the purpose of preservation but also adds an aesthetic and educational dimension to the heritage site. The novelty of this research lies in its holistic approach, considering both the preservation of the structure and the promotion of biodiversity. Recommendations for Improvement: For further enhancement of the study, it would be beneficial to include long-term monitoring and impact assessment strategies. Additionally, engaging with a broader range of interdisciplinary experts, including ecologists, historians, and landscape architects, could provide more comprehensive insights.

2. 1. Detailed Elaboration on the Damage Caused by Plants on the Top Surface of the Great Wall Heritage Site:
3. • （1）The article should specify the types of plants and their growth characteristics, particularly how their root systems penetrate or compromise the structure of the Great Wall.
   • （2）It needs to elucidate the physical and chemical impacts of plant growth on the materials of the Wall, such as the loosening of stones due to root penetration or erosion caused by chemical reactions.
   • （3）The provision of past research or case studies demonstrating the specific damages caused by vegetation to the Great Wall would be beneficial.

4. 2. Specification of "Soft Capping" Protection Techniques:

   • （1）The manuscript should describe the precise technical steps involved, including methods of plant removal such as manual stripping, chemical treatment, or other mechanical means.
   • （2）Detailed explanations on how to address and prevent the potential regeneration of remaining roots are necessary.
   • （3）The paper should explicate the selection and application of covering materials, ensuring their environmental compatibility and suitability for the Wall’s structure.
   • （4）Introducing examples of similar cultural heritage preservation practices from around the world for comparison and reference would be advantageous.

5. 3. In-depth Interpretation of the "Garden on the Great Wall" Cultural Landscape:

   • （1）The design elements of this landscape, such as types of plants, layout, and their connection to the history and culture of the Great Wall, should be described in detail.
   • （2）The discussion should consider how to integrate modern landscape design elements without compromising the original structure and historical integrity of the Great Wall.
   • （3）Analysis of how this cultural landscape can enhance the touristic value of the Great Wall while protecting and promoting its cultural heritage is essential.
   • （4）Proposals for long-term strategies to monitor and maintain this landscape, ensuring its sustainable development and preservation, are recommended.

Author Response

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Author Response File: Author Response.pdf

Reviewer 3 Report

The English should be accurately revised by a native speaking colleague or author. I would add a few photographs of the present situation, which can made the paper and the problems related with the presence of plants easier to understand and more interesting. 

Please check the few notes I have made and proceed with corrections

Comments for author File: Comments.pdf

There are a few points not so easy to understand. The paper should be accurately revised by a native language speaker and represented

Author Response

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Author Response File: Author Response.pdf

Reviewer 4 Report

The paper provides an account of a basic framework for the 'soft capping' on the top surface of the Great Wall heritage and the construction of the cultural landscape of the 'Garden on the Great Wall.'

In the reviewer's opinion the draft resembles a technical report more than a scientific work. For this reason, I believe it is appropriate to reject the work

Author Response

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Author Response File: Author Response.pdf

Round 2

Reviewer 2 Report

Accept.

Author Response

We thank the reviewer for the opportunity to improve our manuscript and research.

Reviewer 3 Report

Thank you for reviewing and following the suggested comments

Author Response

We thank the reviewer for the opportunity to improve our manuscript and research.

Reviewer 4 Report

Dear authors,

in my opinion the paper remains too generic.

It needs to elucidate the physical and chemical impacts of plant growth on the materials of the Wall, such as the loosening of stones due to root penetration or erosion caused by chemical reactions.

Specifications of "Soft Capping" Protection Techniques, explanations on how to address and prevent the potential regeneration of remaining roots, and explicating the selection and application of covering materials, ensuring their environmental compatibility and suitability for the Wall’s structure are still rough.

Author Response

Please see the attachment.

Author Response File: Author Response.docx