09/02/2006

State-of-the-art satellite technologies, geo-data and Geographical Information and Technology Communication Systems are combined in the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki's new thematic network "Geo-Impact". The network's goal is to increase understanding of the mechanisms behind natural hazards and disasters, and encourage more effective handling of such incidents.

Participating in this Thematic Network are the following research teams: Geo-Grav (Department of Geodesy and Surveying, Agronomic and Land Surveying Engineers), Quake Impact (Department of Geophysics, Geology), Engineering Geology (Laboratory of Engineering Geology and Hydrology) and the Laboratory of Geodesy and Geomatics (Department of Civil Engineering).

The Network?s main functions are the creation of a scientific and technological infrastructure required for the systematic reporting of issues related to natural hazards, the development of tools for the effective management of these hazards and the provision of specialised services to public and private organisations for relief measures in emergency situations.

In this context, local databases with information on natural disasters are being combined. Geophysical, geological and statistical data are being incorporated, and methods and algorithms for locating danger spots, and estimating their possible impacts, are being worked out. The Network?s findings are proving particularly interesting for all involved parties from public organisations who deal with the disasters and estimate the damages, to private and insurance companies who provide services and products related to natural disasters.

Please note that Aristotle University of Thessalonica continues to operate Thematic Networks for fields including: energy technologies, material and innovative product technologies, environment, telecommunications, transport and nanotechnology.

Source: Aristotle University of Thessaloniki