Wide Angle: Technology to Save the World
May 04, 2009
Scientists are harnessing computing systems such as the Internet and embedded sensing networks to keep tabs on the world. What they learn could help us observe ecologies we've never seen before, identify endangered species and even see health trends that could adversely affect large populations. In this wide angle, we'll take a look at the technologies on mission to save the world.
- Podcast: Vodafone Wireless Innovation Project
Vodafone operates in 25 countries, some of them developing nations, where things like infectious diseases and sudden natural disasters take heavy tolls. In response, it sponsored the Wireless Innovation Project. One hundred applicants submitted ideas that harnessed new and existing wireless technologies in pursuit of social good. Clark Boyd talks with the top three winners.
- Blog: Will the Internet Say "I Told You So"?
The Internet is being eyed as a way to warn us about ecological catastrophe. Our current ecological monitoring systems just aren't fast enough -- looking for key words and patterns online from scientists, government officials, and casual observers could be more effective.
- IEEE Spectrum Feature: How To Master A Seismic Disaster
When the next big earthquake strikes Tokyo, an early-warning system could help save lives and property.
- IM Interview: Curing the Mosquito to Stop Malaria
Malaria is a complex disease that involves the interactions of three organisms: human, parasite, and mosquito. If scientists can interrupt any of these interactions, they could control the disease. Tracy Staedter chats with George Dimopoulos about the methods researchers are developing.
- Blog: Tech for the Developing World, Stat!
Malaria
Dr. Robert Malkin is a professor of bioengineering at Duke University and director for the Engineering World Health program. He recently spoke with me about key problem areas in the developing world and emerging solutions.
- News: Technology Saving the World
From tagging to Twitter, researchers are developing and using new technologies to track endangered species, population growth and even diseases like the recent swine flu outbreak. Read how they do it and how it's helping people all over the world.
- Blog: Surgery Light, MacGyver-Style
Periodic power outages are more than just annoying. They're dangerous, especially if one happens in the middle of surgery. Enter the pie-plate-bike-part-LED-battery lamp, designed by a University of Michigan student group.
- Blog: Tracking The Spread of the H1N1 Flu Virus
People are going out of their way to track the H1N1 influenza virus (that's the swine flu) in real time over the Internet. HowStuffWorks explores how and why.
- Puzzle: Tracking the World
Secret surveillance cameras and Internet maps are used to track everything from animals to flu outbreaks.
- Video: Text Messages Save Lives
A text messaging-based program, called Mobiles in Malawi, is saving lives by connecting rural communities to hospitals. Kasey-Dee Gardner explain how it works.
- Top 10: Ways Cell Phones Help People Living in Poverty
Cell phones are becoming ubiquitous, even in underdeveloped countries. This unprecedented penetration by a communications technology is clearly changing the face of the developing world for the better -- in some cases, in ways that not even the most visionary leaders anticipated.
- Top 10: Innovations for Impoverished People
Two billion people in the world don't get enough to eat, approximately one billion live on less than a dollar a day and every year 1.4 million children die because they lack sanitary conditions and access to clean water. Some humanitarians think these numbers can be lowered with simple technologies. Here are 10 that are making a difference.
The Magniwork Generator has just been invented. The generator can be built for less than $125 and reduces a homes electricity consumption by 40-60%
http://magniwork-review.blogspot.com
Posted by: James | June 04, 2009 at 12:53 PM