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In a feature article published by the World Food Programme’s Innovation Accelerator, the Global Earthquake Model (GEM) Foundation’s role in improving earthquake emergency response was highlighted as part of a broader effort to enhance data-driven humanitarian action. The article, “Investing in Innovation to Future-Proof Humanitarian Response,” presents how GEM’s seismic risk models are being integrated into WFP’s ADAM+ platform to help bridge critical information gaps in the early hours following an earthquake. 

Earthquakes often strike without warning, leaving responders with limited information to assess damage and prioritise relief. ADAM+ (Automated Disaster Analysis and Mapping) is WFP’s analytics platform designed to provide fast, accurate insights for early decision-making. By integrating GEM’s ground-shaking impact assessments, exposure data, and vulnerability models, the platform can estimate damage and potential humanitarian needs within 24–48 hours of a seismic event. 

The collaboration was launched in late 2023 through WFP’s Innovation Accelerator programme. GEM joined an intensive online bootcamp followed by a pitch event in Munich and was later selected for a six-month Sprint Programme to refine its prototype and field applications. The joint initiative focused on two main objectives: strengthening early warning and preparedness, and improving post-event impact assessment using harmonised data inputs, including USGS ShakeMap and GEM’s global exposure datasets. 

The integration of earthquake-specific risk layers into ADAM+ marks a significant step forward for anticipatory action in disaster-prone regions. It enables humanitarian agencies, national authorities, and international partners to act quickly and effectively based on scientifically grounded estimates - particularly in areas where satellite data may not be immediately available. 

This initiative reflects GEM’s broader commitment to making seismic risk data accessible and actionable for all sectors. As global disaster risks intensify, partnerships like this are essential to strengthening emergency preparedness and delivering timely, coordinated response when it matters most. 

Read the full article: https://wfpinnovation.medium.com/investing-in-innovation-to-future-proof-humanitarian-response-039497a30018