Innovation is a critical piece of the disaster response puzzle and the foundation of our work at Prometheus. By prioritizing an innovative approach, we’re able to harness new and emerging technology to learn from – and act on – real-time data. This approach also allows us to learn from recent and current events to improve our chances of success and efficiency for partner nations at every turn.
The Role of Data in Disaster Preparedness and Response
Technology serves as a critical link in disaster response protocols, especially when it comes to communication and data collection. By gathering information and data, we can provide invaluable mapping and response plans, and determine an effective distribution of resources. In addition, we can use technology in our scenario planning, learning from past disasters to improve recovery in real-time. When harnessed effectively, technology and data are some of the most powerful tools available in helping countries prepare for and lead during disaster.
Our data-gathering tools include resource databases, sensor technology, knowledge networks, weather trackers, GPS programs, and more. These tools and the innovations coming out of their corresponding industries are what allow us to put life-saving measures at the forefront of our response plans.
Flood exposure map of Myanmar. Flood exposure includes land cover, infrastructural, and population data. Source: Frontiers.org
The satellite imagery from EOSDA LandViewer shows how fires in Yakutia spread in July of 2021.
Embracing Innovation Across Public and Private Sectors
On the never-ending journey to seek out and leverage innovative technology and subsequent data, we tap into opportunities in both the public and private sectors. This includes a variety of technology and data-gathering tools, as well as open-source technologies.
Technology and Data Gathering
Predictive AI leverages advanced algorithms or machine learning (or a combination of the two) to analyze data and recognize patterns. AI can help us anticipate disasters, analyze risks, and optimize response strategies based on historical data, improving the efficacy of our preparedness plans.
Simulation Programming allows us to create – and learn from – virtual disaster scenarios. This can make it easier for emergency responders to practice or refine their strategies in a risk-free testing environment, enhancing their preparedness and decision-making skills.
Flood Hazard Mapping taps into geospatial data and modeling technologies to visualize or assess areas prone to flooding. This helps us develop targeted evacuation plans and allocate resources effectively.
Sensor Technology involves deploying various sensors to monitor environmental conditions and detect anomalies along the way. When it comes to disaster response, sensors can provide us with real-time data on factors like air quality, seismic activity, or water levels. This data enables rapid decision-making for teams and governments.
Early Warning Systems integrate data from sources and sensors, including weather forecasts and predictions. These systems enable timely alerts and are crucial in giving communities the necessary lead time to evacuate or prepare for disaster on the horizon.
Weather Forecasting and Tracking technologies tap into satellite data, radar systems, and numerical models to predict or monitor weather conditions and meteorological data. This information allows nations and leaders to anticipate and respond to weather-related disasters like hurricanes, tornadoes, and storms.
Satellite Imagery offers a bird’s-eye view of areas impacted by natural disasters. By leveraging this technology, we can quickly assess the extent of any damage and assist in directing emergency response crews, enacting plans, and coordinating relief efforts with accurate spatial information.
Open-Source Technology
We support The Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies (ARISE) – established by UNDRR – for public-private collaboration using open-source technology. ARISE is a collaborative initiative, bringing together businesses, corporations, and private sector entities with the goal of improving disaster resilience worldwide. The private sector plays a critical role in preparedness, response, and recovery efforts. By nurturing partnerships and encouraging knowledge-sharing among members, ARISE seeks to increase the resiliency of communities. We stand behind this mission and believe that in doing so, we can integrate sustainable business practices and innovative solutions into disaster risk reduction strategies.
When we talk about open-source technology, we’re referring to any technological solution that has been made available to the public. By allowing anyone to view, use, modify, or distribute these tools and designs, we can prioritize collaboration. This approach allows developers, researchers, and even enthusiasts to contribute to the conversation of improving and evolving technology to save lives.
In the context of disaster preparedness and response, open-source technology promotes the development of flexible solutions that can be shared and implemented as needed. Prometheus believes in fostering a more inclusive and collaborative approach to disaster preparedness, and the data gleaned from open-source technology and resources is part of what allows us to achieve this.
Accelerating Resilience Through Data
Our ability to lead and manage through crisis is enhanced by our strong ties to data sources and knowledge-sharing organizations. By innovating in these areas and relying on experts – and their data – we’re better able to address challenges and make changes across the disaster preparedness and response space.
