Innovative responses mitigate disaster impact (Christchurch 2011)

Christchurch impact indicator - dust rising from collapses after quake.

As the response moves to recognise the breadth of impact across the city, its infrastructure and its people, New Zealanders are applying several innovative "emergent resources" to mitigate the impact of this disaster.
Key issues are around "lifelines" - the networks that supply and link us to meet our core needs (from power, and water to communication).

The need to communicate is the glue that binds the efforts and three illustrations are apt:
1. Telecom NZ has 60 electricity generators and five portable mobile phone towers to keep the phone network up.
2. Google has set up an online finding service:

3. Online auction site Trade Me, set up a service linking people needing accommodation and assistance with those willing to offer it.

In this scenario of devestation, one hopes that these and other emergent, innovative approaches will be enough to see Christchurch get up and running.