The Potential Role of Local Communities and Low-Cost Technologies in Monitoring and Protection against natural hazards

The adoption of low-cost technologies for geographic observation and environmental monitoring enables the development of a distributed and systematic participatory system for managing natural hazards, including volcanic risks. This approach integrates local observers, that we may call "On-Site Sentinels," selected from residents in monitored areas. These actors, leveraging their continuous presence in the territory, can collect relevant data using accessible tools such as flying drones, rover drones, thermal cameras, and open-source GIS platforms.

Bottom-up information can support local authorities and civil protection organizations in planning, prevention, and emergency management, facilitating decisions based on up-to-date and contextualized data. Documentation and mapping efforts can be further enriched by participatory platforms (APPGIS, WEBGIS) and early warning systems integrated with social networks.

However, to ensure the effectiveness of this grassroots involvement, it is crucial to develop structured synergies between local communities and relevant authorities. This process requires clear protocols, operational standards, and continuous dialogue. Monitoring and information methodologies based on low-cost technologies and integrated data collection can be successfully applied, enhancing the monitoring and protection of territories facing complex risks and various forms of natural hazards.

Effectively implementing these tools can overcome current regulatory and organizational challenges, transforming local communities into active partners in safeguarding the territory.