Talks
Speakers
Events
Topics
Sign in
Home
Talks
Speakers
Events
Topics
Leaderboard
Use
Analytics
Sign in
Suggest modification to this talk
Title
Description
RubyKaigi2017 http://rubykaigi.org/2017/presentations/matschaffer.html In the wake of the March 2011 earthquake, many noticed a lack of good environmental data regarding radiation. The Safecast project was born from that need and our Ruby-based infrastructure how is home to nearly 70 million data points. In this talk we'll go over the basics of the project, what we've learned over the last 6 years of running a volunteer-based Ruby project, and our plans for future expansion into tracking both radiation and air quality data.
Date
Summarized using AI?
If this talk's summary was generated by AI, please check this box. A "Summarized using AI" badge will be displayed in the summary tab to indicate that the summary was generated using AI.
Show "Summarized using AI" badge on summary page
Summary
Markdown supported
In his talk at RubyKaigi 2017, Mat Schaffer discusses the Safecast project, which was initiated after the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and Fukushima nuclear disaster to address the lack of reliable environmental data regarding radiation levels. Safecast has established a Ruby-based infrastructure that now houses nearly 70 million data points concerning radiation and air quality worldwide. The central theme revolves around community involvement and the application of technology to enhance data transparency and ensure public safety amidst environmental concerns. Key points discussed include: - **Origin of Safecast**: The project was launched on March 11, 2011, when concerns over safety arose following the disaster, leading the founders to seek reliable data on radiation levels. - **Community Engagement**: Volunteers play a critical role in collecting data, enabling crowdsourced environmental monitoring that empowers individuals to inquire "Are you safe?" based on real-time measurements. - **Data Collection Methods**: Participants initially faced challenges due to a shortage of Geiger counters. They innovatively adapted methods by attaching Geiger counters to vehicles, which allowed them to collect substantial data while driving through affected areas. - **Growth and Impact**: From its inception, Safecast has resiliently expanded, now providing valuable insights into both radiation levels and air quality globally. Volunteers have continued exploring various creative approaches for data collection, significantly growing the organization’s reach. - **Ruby's Role**: The Safecast project leverages Ruby's capabilities as a robust backbone for data management and process automation, facilitating smooth integration of community contributions and fostering participation. - **Future Plans**: Safecast aims to develop mobile applications for ease of access to data, enhance user engagement, and maintain a transparent dialogue about environmental health. In conclusion, the Safecast initiative illustrates how technology and community collaboration can foster data transparency, enhance public safety and well-being, and inspire others to become involved in similar causes. Schaffer emphasizes that anyone can participate, regardless of expertise, and encourages individuals to explore opportunities that resonate with their passions while helping to create a safer and more informed society.
Suggest modifications
Cancel
