Topics/Call for Papers

Topics of Interest for Submission include, but are Not Limited to:

I. Predictive Analytics & Early Warning Systems

  • AI and Machine Learning for Hazard Prediction:
    • Using AI/ML to forecast natural disasters (e.g., floods, wildfires, earthquakes, extreme weather events).
    • Predictive modeling for disease outbreaks and pandemics.
    • Anomaly detection in infrastructure data for early warning of failures.
  • IoT & Sensor Networks for Real-time Monitoring:
    • Deploying smart sensors (e.g., seismic, hydrological, atmospheric, structural integrity) for continuous environmental monitoring.
    • Wireless sensor networks and real-time data transmission for early detection.
    • Integration of IoT data with AI for enhanced situational awareness.
  • Satellite Technology & Remote Sensing:
    • High-resolution satellite imagery for pre-disaster risk assessment and post-disaster damage assessment.
    • Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) for all-weather, day-night monitoring.
    • Satellite communication for maintaining connectivity in affected areas.
    • Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for mapping, vulnerability analysis, and visualization.
  • Crowdsourcing & Social Media Analytics:
    • Leveraging social media for real-time information gathering, situational awareness, and public warnings.
    • Crowdsourced data collection for damage assessment and unmet needs.
    • Natural Language Processing (NLP) for analyzing crisis-related text data.

II. Advanced Response & Rescue Technologies

  • Drones (UAVs) in Disaster Response:
    • Aerial reconnaissance and real-time damage assessment.
    • Search and rescue operations (thermal imaging, payload delivery).
    • Mapping and 3D modeling of affected areas.
    • Communication relay in areas with disrupted infrastructure.
    • Autonomous drone navigation in complex environments.
  • Robotics & Autonomous Systems:
    • Robots for hazardous environment exploration (e.g., collapsed buildings, CBRN incidents).
    • Robots for logistics and delivery of aid in dangerous areas.
    • Swarms of robots for large-scale search or mapping.
    • Wearable robotics and exoskeletons for first responders.
  • Communication Technologies for Disasters:
    • Resilient communication networks (e.g., satellite, mesh networks, ad-hoc mobile networks).
    • Emergency broadcasting systems and public alert technologies.
    • Interoperable communication platforms for multi-agency coordination.
    • Next-generation wireless technologies (e.g., 5G/6G) for rapid deployment.
  • Augmented Reality (AR) & Virtual Reality (VR) for Field Operations:
    • AR overlays for situational awareness in the field (e.g., mapping utilities, identifying hazards).
    • VR for remote collaboration and expert guidance during response operations.

III. Resilient Infrastructure & Recovery Technologies

  • Smart Infrastructure & IoT for Resilience:
    • Embedding sensors in critical infrastructure (bridges, buildings, power grids) for continuous health monitoring.
    • Self-healing materials and adaptive structures.
    • Predictive analytics for infrastructure maintenance and upgrades.
    • Autonomous energy grids and microgrids for localized resilience.
  • Digital Twins for Recovery Planning:
    • Creating virtual replicas of communities or infrastructure for post-disaster damage assessment and reconstruction planning.
    • Simulating recovery scenarios and optimizing resource allocation.
  • Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing) for Recovery:
    • On-site 3D printing of temporary shelters, replacement parts, or infrastructure components.
    • Rapid manufacturing of medical supplies or tools in disaster zones.
  • Blockchain for Humanitarian Aid & Supply Chain Transparency:
    • Ensuring transparency and accountability in aid distribution.
    • Tracking supplies from donor to beneficiary.
    • Secure digital identities for displaced populations.
    • Decentralized finance for direct cash transfers to affected individuals.
  • Sustainable & Green Recovery Technologies:
    • Eco-friendly building materials and construction techniques for reconstruction.
    • Renewable energy solutions for powering temporary shelters and critical facilities.

IV. Cross-Cutting Themes & Ethical Considerations

  • Data Management & Interoperability:
    • Standards and protocols for data sharing between different technologies and agencies.
    • Big Data analytics platforms for disaster intelligence.
    • Data security, privacy, and ethical use of personal information in crisis.
  • Cybersecurity in Disaster Management:
    • Protecting critical infrastructure from cyberattacks during and after disasters.
    • Securing emergency communication networks and data systems.
    • Addressing ransomware and other cyber threats targeting vulnerable systems.
  • AI Ethics & Bias in Disaster Technology:
    • Addressing potential biases in AI algorithms used for prediction or resource allocation.
    • Ensuring equitable access to technology for all communities.
    • Transparency and accountability in AI decision-making.
  • Human-Technology Collaboration:
    • Optimizing human-machine interfaces for emergency responders.
    • Training first responders to effectively use new technologies.
    • Understanding the psychological impact of technology on disaster survivors and responders.
  • Policy, Governance, & Regulation:
    • Developing legal frameworks for the deployment and use of emerging technologies in disasters.
    • International cooperation and standardization of disaster technology.
    • Public-private partnerships for technology development and deployment.
  • Education & Training:
    • VR/AR simulations for disaster preparedness training (e.g., active shooter, mass casualty, evacuation drills).
    • Gamification of disaster education and awareness.
    • Developing digital literacy and tech skills for community resilience.
  • Innovation Ecosystems for Disaster Tech:
    • Fostering startups and research in disaster-focused technologies.
    • Investment and funding mechanisms for innovative solutions.
    • Testbeds and living labs for piloting new technologies.