App-ology: Tech tycoon atones for coastal damage with mobile guide
Updated | By AFP
When tech whizz Sean Parker angered conservationists with a lavish but damaging outdoor wedding to match the excess of any Hollywood party he apologized in the only way he knew how -- he built an app.
On top of installing rock walls, the 39-year-old billionnaire had his workers put in a stone bridge, artificial pond and elevated platforms for the Tolkien-inspired bash five years ago -- all without permits.
Reportedly mortified by the backlash, Parker agreed to pay the California Coastal Commission $2.5 million and build the free-of-charge YourCoast, which locates public beaches, campsites and other amenities along the state's picturesque 1,271-mile (2,045-kilometer) coast.
"We negotiated a creative agreement with a willing partner of great ability and expertise that will widely benefit the public. We literally ended up working with some of the world's best tech engineers to create something that everyone can use and enjoy."
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