The giant Amazon is opening its very first center dedicated to helping victims of natural disasters in Europe. All thanks to an impressive logistics network, specific to the e-retailer.
Amazon announced on Monday that it had inaugurated its first center dedicated to helping victims of natural disasters in Europe. Located in Germany, this vast 2,000 square meter logistics center will store essential items, which will be used to carry out rapid responses in the event of floods, fires or other emergency situations. An initiative that uses the logistics but also the technology of the American company.
Amazon ready to ship relief and survival equipment in less than 72 hours amid disaster
Amazon’s new disaster relief hub will stock many essential products in such circumstances. Examples include tents, blankets, mattresses, cleaning items and even hygiene kits. All will be ready to ship less than 72 hours after a flood, earthquake or forest fire.
The company is putting in the resources since the warehouse, which is based in Rheinberg in Germany (easily accessible from the main international airports in the area), will be equipped with 1,000 pallets of items. This is 20 times more than the volume that can be transported by a Boeing 737.
The European warehouse will be supplied based on products commonly used during disasters. Amazon analyzed product search data after each major weather event, finding that 80% of items were the same each time. Amazon explains to us that the most sought-after products are baby diapers, camp beds, protective tarpaulins, radiators and maintenance products.
Amazon Web Services, the giant’s cloud subsidiary, also makes its contribution
To coordinate operations, Amazon will collaborate with humanitarian organizations such as the International Organization for Migration, the Red Cross or Save the Children. Since 2017, Amazon has already provided logistical support during 145 disasters, donating more than 24 million essential items.
Although it is unique in Europe, Amazon has other similar centers around the world, in the United States, Australia and Asia. Over the past 18 months, the company has been able to respond to fires in Australia, China, Hawaii and Colombia, but also after earthquakes in Morocco, Syria, Japan and Turkey. Not to mention the cyclones and hurricanes that hit Florida, India and Puerto Rico. Each time, Amazon helped.
It should be noted that in addition to storing and distributing items, Amazon also uses its cloud technology through its subsidiary Amazon Web Services (AWS), to improve disaster response. AWS provides support to assess damage, restore Internet connections, and boost call center capabilities during emergency situations. The company also helps NGOs map and assess damage and make decisions more quickly on priority interventions. So many initiatives that reinforce the company’s commitment to the safety of populations affected by natural disasters.
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