From a Seismological Network to a Socio- Seismological One: A Citizen Science Experiment in Haïti to Reduce Seismic Risk
Langue
en
Article de revue
Ce document a été publié dans
Citizen Science: Theory and Practice. 2023-01-10, vol. 8, n° 1, p. 2
Ubiquity Press
Résumé en anglais
On January 12, 2010, Haiti was hit by one of the largest seismic disasters known to date. At the time, the culture and perception of seismic risk was low among the population and– because of the lack of seismic sensors in ...Lire la suite >
On January 12, 2010, Haiti was hit by one of the largest seismic disasters known to date. At the time, the culture and perception of seismic risk was low among the population and– because of the lack of seismic sensors in Haiti –—so was seismological knowledge. In a citizen seismology approach, the S2RHAI project used low-cost seismic sensors (Raspberry Shake) to (1) complement the national seismic network and (2) to improve risk perception, preparedness, and scientific knowledge of the population. Through these objectives, we introduce a paradigm shift in which seismic networks are not only composed of sensors, but also of citizens who gather around these tools and the information they produce. We present here the results of a qualitative survey of 15 Raspberry Shake (RS) seismometer hosts in Haiti. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to learn about users’ experience to assess their motivations, difficulties, and expectations in this citizen seismology process. We found that RS hosts expressed pride and interest in being part of the RS network and actively contributing to risk reduction in their community. Some of them reported a form of empowerment in that they could compensate for the deficiency of the state, which they generally distrust. However, the RS hosts also expressed the need for more technical and scientific support from scientists. Also, few of them engaged in mediation activities or discussions with their community members, partly because they feared that this would awaken the trauma caused by the earthquake of 12 January, 2010. This allowed us to list concrete actions to (1) improve the seismic information system, (2) better integrate the volunteers into the network, (3) enrich the collaboration between citizens and seismologists, and (4) accompany them in their role as ambassadors to their community. We conclude that understanding the motivations, obstacles, and expectations of volunteers is essential to increase the chances of sustainability of this citizen seismology project.< Réduire
Mots clés en anglais
Haiti
Raspberry Shake Seismological Network
citizen science
seismology
risk awareness
empowerment
Project ANR
Vers un réseau d'observation socio-sismologique multi-acteur pour la réduction du risque sismique en Haiti - ANR-21-CE03-0010
Origine
Importé de halUnités de recherche