SAN MARCOS, California — A new technology that uses cost-effective 3D printers will influence the way weather is predicted in developing nations, which will not only save lives, but also impact the economy.
USAID has partnered with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in order to create cost-efficient technologies that aid in disaster prevention. Most recently, finding ways to produce an affordable method to predict bad weather and improve weather forecasts has been part of an ongoing research endeavor. The result—a new 3D printing technology that creates affordable weather stations.
Although weather forecasts appear accessible in many parts of the world, it is important to note that several developing nations do not have a reliable weather station or source to predict the climate. Due to the cost of weather systems, access to important forecast predictions is limited, leaving developing nations unprotected against climate and environmental concerns. Affordable technology then becomes an important tool in the national and economic development of the world’s poor.
The use of cost effective 3D printers will change the way weather is predicted in developing nations. The price of a normal weather station can cost tens of thousands of dollars while 3D printers, with an estimated total cost of $200, can be used as a substitute to create reliable weather stations.
Consequently, the better the forecast, the higher chance there is to protect the country from climate conditions that impact livelihoods. The 3D printer can predict temperature, pressure, humidity, rainfall and wind, which is necessary for rural environments that rely heavily on climate for agriculture and food security.
According to a report by the Overseas Development Institute, by 2030 an estimated 325 million people around the world will be living in areas that are highly susceptible to natural disasters and environmental hazards. The 3D printers proposed may be the aid needed to reduce the impact of natural and environmental hazards on livelihood. According to USAID, the technology will be able to protect the country from natural disasters brought on by climate. These weather predictions will better prepare the country and allow for enough time to take necessary precautions, which will ultimately reduce the risk of death and poverty as a result of agricultural set backs.
Currently, the 3D-printed weather technology is still under standard review and is being tested for durability and functionality. As the technology moves on to the next phase of development, test pilots will become available for up to two developing nations.
Technology can be a powerful tool that leaves a lasting impact on the world. Specific emerging inventions such as 3D printers are tailored to dealing with the sources of poverty and are ultimately changing the way developing nations deal with climate and environmental concerns.
Emerging technologies that focus on global health, food security and agricultural development are some of the ways technology can save lives. Continually researching new ways to produce cost-effective technologies that address underlying issue of global poverty can ultimately leave a positive impact on the world.
– Nada Sewidan
Sources: Overseas Development Institute, Science Daily, USAID
Photo: Tin Moi Truong