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Technology in Times of Crisis

Natural disasters

Technology connects people, objects,and information much more than any other time in history. You can see the traffic on a smartphone, call a taxi to your exact location using an application,you can chat with friends living in other countries, and you can even do exercise by watching an online video. However,when technology has really proven to be a life saver is in times of crisis. Whether these are natural disasters, humanitarian crises, pandemics, or any other,technology has become an ally.

One of technology's most meaningful benefits lies in the humanitarian sector, which reaches large numbers of people in remote and dangerous locations to provide critical resources fast and efficiently. In times of disaster, basic connectivity is a form of aid, allowing organizations to deliver life-saving information and resources.

• Big data analytics is useful to get crucial information on which to act. It helps build a real time picture of what is happening on the ground. Analysing water levels,shelter locations, availability of beds, road closures, among others allow humanitarian organisations to act. For example, the Red Cross responded in less than two months to more disasters than they had covered in the last four years thanks to data analytics platforms.

Aerial robotics like drones help tremendously in times of crisis.Using this technology, organisations can assess damage in real time,increase situational awareness and deliver items faster, cheaper,and more effectively. In the case of earthquakes, aerial robotics allows for effective response.

Extra Reading Unit 1



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One hundred and twenty

Unit 1 • What's New?