Short Abstract

In this workshop we will evaluate the challenges and opportunities to develop citizen science activities in marine, coastal and freshwater domains, exploring the singularities of these ecosystems compared to the terrestrial ones. We will explore strategies to maximise engagement, and inclusiveness.

Description

Blue (marine, coastal and freshwater) citizen science is emerging as a prominent approach to ocean and waters management, spatial ecology, and conservation. Participatory monitoring systems provide an essential means to expand scientific knowledge and understanding of marine, coastal and freshwater ecosystems, with thousands of volunteers participating in biodiversity monitoring, marine and freshwater litter tracking, and environmental parameter collection. The increased social engagement pursued by oceans and waters citizen science has also fostered greater public support for the conservation of these ecosystems.

Citizen science activities in the ocean and waters domains face significant barriers that hinder public participation, primarily due to the inherent complexity of marine environments compared to terrestrial ones.

In this workshop we will identify and explore the different challenges associated with these particular ecosystems, such as the increase in knowledge barriers (for example, marine organisms are generally more difficult to identify than terrestrial ones), the problems to deploy low cost devices in salty environments, or the safety and civil liability aspects for volunteers (especially in underwater activities).

The workshop will have a World Café Format

Participants will rotate among the 4 themed tables, engaging in focused, interactive discussions.

Each rotation is 15min

Each table is equipped with writable napkin, pens, and sticky notes to capture ideas, questions, and emerging insights.

2 table hosts will facilitate the conversation, guide discussions, capture insights, and ensure continuity by summarizing previous contributions for new participants as they join.

4 themed tables

Table 1: Blue Data

Table 2: Blue Engagement

Table 3: Blue Tools & Technologies

Table 4: Blue Literacy