Airbnb, Lyft and Uber Are Among Tech Companies That Helped Improve The Disaster Response For Hurricane Harvey And Irma
Today, app-based technology facilitates most of our daily lives. In light of the relief efforts conducted by big tech companies during Hurricane Irma, it appears that this technology is also enabling a new generation of disaster response.
Before the onset of Hurricane Irma in Florida, hospitality service provider Airbnb activated its very own disaster response program via their website. They encouraged hosts to list their homes for free in a call to action that read “if you have available housing in the area indicated on the map, please consider making your home available”. In addition, global technology giant Uber also placed a cap on fares ahead of Irma’s landfall. They did this so that no one would get a “higher than usual price” when trying to get around in South Florida.
Elon Musk, founder of Tesla also unlocked the full capabilities of the Tesla battery to help customers flee the storm. Tesla sent an email to its customers across Florida which read “Due to exceptional circumstances, and to help you better prepare to evacuate and get to safety, your vehicle has been adjusted at no cost to you to temporarily access the additional battery capacity until September 16th”. Once Irma changed course, Uber and Lyft responded quickly and offered free rides to shelters near Tampa.
Tech companies, like Uber and Airbnb have established a peer-to-peer model which allows customers to make informed decision when using their services. Now, these companies have been able to use their technology to support many people during a time of crisis. Although tech companies can seem detached from the rest of the world, it is nice to see some of them taking the initiative and offering free transportation, housing and other resources. Of course, being a good corporate citizen is great for PR, but if it also means that people on the ground get to benefit from innovative relief efforts, then that’s good too.
IMAGE CREDIT:limbitech / 123RF Stock Photo
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I am Luke Miller, content manager at Truth Theory and creator of Potential For Change. I like to blend psychology and spirituality to help you create more happiness in your life.Grab a copy of my free 33 Page Illustrated eBook- Psychology Meets Spirituality- Secrets To A Supercharged Life You Control Here
Written by: Fattima Mahdi
Fattima Mahdi is a author, mentor, lyricist and professional roller-skater. She uses both her love for writing and music to address socio-political issues prevalent in society today. She is also the proud author of Love Don’t Come Easy. Read More stories by Fattima Mahdi
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