TED: Can we call it a "world map" if it's missing a billion people? | Rebecca Firth

The video discusses the impact of Hurricane Maria on Puerto Rico and the response by the Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team (HOT), which mobilized volunteers to map the island. It highlights the challenges faced by unmapped regions and the importance of mapping for crisis response. The video explains how OpenStreetMap works and its global impact, including aiding in disaster relief and health initiatives. HOT's future goals include expanding their volunteer base and improving mapping technology to ensure vulnerable areas are mapped before crises occur.

What was one of the main actions taken by the Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team (HOT) in response to Hurricane Maria?

• They rebuilt damaged infrastructure.

• They provided food and water supplies.

• They evacuated people from the island.

• They mapped every home and road in Puerto Rico.

Why is it problematic for communities to be 'not on the map'?

• It makes them more prone to natural disasters.

• It results in higher taxes.

• It causes disrespect and avoidable suffering.

• It leads to increased tourism.

What was the main challenge faced by community health workers in Peru?

• Poor communication with local authorities.

• Lack of medical supplies.

• Insufficient funding for health programs.

• Inability to locate children due to lack of maps.

Why are vulnerable areas often not included in commercial maps?

• The technology to map these areas does not exist.

• Local governments restrict mapping activities.

• For-profit companies prioritize areas that generate advertising revenue.

• They are too dangerous to map.

What is the primary tool used by HOT to create maps?

• OpenStreetMap

• Bing Maps

• MapQuest

• Google Maps

What is one of the future goals of HOT?

• To map only urban areas.

• To engage 1 million volunteers to map vulnerable areas.

• To create maps for commercial sale.

• To focus solely on mapping in Africa.

How can individuals contribute to mapping efforts according to the final section?

• By writing articles about mapping.

• By attending mapping workshops.

• By swiping left or right on a mobile app.

• By donating money to HOT.