Wi-Fi, Climate, and Equity: An Unveiling
June 2023
MIT Technology Review

Introduction
Dive into the intriguing world of Monica Sanders’s journey through Anacostia, as she uncovers the intertwined realities of climate vulnerability and the digital divide, courtesy of MIT Technology Review. With her iPhone in hand, Sanders measures Wi-Fi speeds that barely scratch the surface of broadband, revealing a deeper story of environmental risk, racial inequity, and the cascading risks they pose. Join her and the Undivide Project as they navigate the complexities of internet access and disaster resiliency in historically marginalized communities. It’s not just about slow internet—it's about survival.
READ FULL ARTICLEWhy It Matters
Discover how this topic shapes your world and future
Unveiling the Web of Climate and Connectivity
Imagine living in a world where the speed of your internet could determine how well you're prepared for a natural disaster. Sounds far-fetched? Not really. This scenario is a reality for many communities facing the dual challenges of climate vulnerability and the digital divide. The significance of this topic stretches globally, as it touches on environmental justice, technological equity, and the fight against climate change. For you, understanding this could mean recognizing the interconnectedness of seemingly separate issues and seeing the bigger picture of how our world works. It's about more than just internet speeds; it's about how access, or the lack thereof, can affect people's lives during critical times. This topic could inspire you to think about solutions that bridge the gap between technology and environmental resilience, making it a fascinating and relevant field to explore.
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Digital divide
The gap between individuals who have access to modern information and communication technology and those who do not.

Climate vulnerability
The degree to which a system is susceptible to, or unable to cope with, adverse effects of climate change.

Cascading risks
When one event triggers a chain of other events, potentially leading to a larger disaster.

Redlining
A discriminatory practice where services (financial and otherwise) are withheld from potential customers who reside in neighborhoods classified as 'hazardous' to investment.

Broadband access
The ability to have a high-speed internet connection that is always on and faster than the traditional dial-up access.

Environmental justice
The fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies.
Independent Research Ideas

Exploring the impact of broadband access on disaster preparedness in vulnerable communities
Investigate how enhanced internet connectivity can improve emergency responses and community resilience in the face of natural disasters.

The role of historical redlining in present-day climate vulnerability
A study on how past discriminatory practices have contributed to increased risk and exposure of marginalized communities to climate-related disasters.

Digital literacy as a tool for climate resilience
Examine how educating communities about technology can empower them to better prepare for and respond to environmental challenges.

The intersection of urban planning, technology, and environmental sustainability
Explore how cities can integrate digital infrastructure with green initiatives to create more resilient urban environments.

Community-led solutions to the digital divide and climate change
Investigate the effectiveness of grassroots initiatives in bridging the digital divide and enhancing climate resilience, highlighting the power of local action.
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