Innovation Forum 3: Citizen Science
SuDS+ Innovation Forum
Innovation Forum 3: Citizen Science and Monitoring
The latest SuDS+ Innovation Forum brought together experts and innovators to explore how citizen science monitoring can support sustainable drainage systems and other environmental initiatives. Our speakers included:
- Usman Adeel from Teeside University who represented SuDS+.
- Andy Dinsdale and Beverley Coombes from Strandliners, also representing the Blue Heart FCRIP project.
- Katie Cruickshanks from NatureMetrics.
They shared ideas on engaging communities, citizen science data collection methods, and how this can lead to improve mental health and environmental stewardship.
Empowering Communities Through Technology
Usman introduced his plans for an innovative app enabling residents to report observations like biodiversity and flooding. This data will be shared via an interactive dashboard, creating a digital hub accessible to stakeholders, including citizens. Citizen science aims to foster community ownership and skill-building while reducing monitoring costs.
Innovative Approaches to Environmental Monitoring
Katie showcased projects empowering citizen scientists to collect eDNA samples from water and soil. In one project, efforts have involved over 100 volunteers monitoring 70+ waterbodies which has uncovered valuable insights into species diversity and ecosystem health.
Strengthening Citizen Engagement
Andy and Beverley of Strandliners highlighted their journey from addressing plastic pollution to broader water quality monitoring with citizens. Their open-source methodologies and training programmes have helped standardise data collection while fostering connections among volunteers. Monthly newsletters and interactive maps keep participants engaged, while hands-on sessions have enhanced local knowledge.
The Role of Citizen Science in SuDS+
Discussions revealed exciting overlaps between citizen science and SuDS+. For instance, it was suggested thar characterising soil fungi communities using citizen science kits could improve plant selection for SuDS projects. Additionally, tackling plastic pollution and fly-tipping through enhanced monitoring with volunteers aligns with community aspirations.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
Participants discussed challenges like volunteer recruitment, equipment costs, and ensuring long-term monitoring. Suggestions included gamification to motivate volunteers, creating community hubs, and addressing logistical hurdles such as risk assessments and biosecurity.
The forum underscored the dual value of citizen science: it not only generates actionable data but also boosts participants’ health and wellbeing. By involving citizens in meaningful projects, environmental initiatives can drive environmental and social benefits on a larger scale.
For more details, take a look at the presentation slides below from Usman, Katie, Andy and Beverley.
