Send message to Authors

Short Abstract

Updated mapping of CS contributions to SDG indicators (10 contributing, 79 potential) defines strategic pathways for Environmental Compliance Assurance. We show how this clarity counters vague policy language identified in compliance frameworks, enabling effective Citizen Generated Data uptake.

Abstract

This paper presents a systematic review and updated mapping of Citizen Science contributions to the 244 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) indicators. Building upon foundational work, this update systematically categorises contributions as "already contributing", "could contribute", or "no alignment present".

The analysis confirms the vital and expanding role of CS: the number of indicators already actively receiving CS contributions doubled from 5 to 10, and 79 indicators (31.6% of the framework) were identified as having the potential for Citizen Generated Data (CGD) contributions. Notably, the initial Tier III indicators, which previously lacked internationally agreed methodologies, have been eliminated in the latest assessment, demonstrating significant progress in methodological rigour and standardisation.

Crucially, this technical mapping is integrated with findings from More4nature’s policy analysis, which analysed EU and international compliance frameworks related to Zero pollution, Biodiversity protection, and Deforestation prevention (Z/B/D). This policy review revealed that although recent policies like the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) and the EU Deforestation-Free Product Regulation (DFPR) directly refer to citizen science, the overall language used is often vague or ambiguous. This ambiguity provides Member States with wide discretion, leading to inconsistent implementation and hindering the integration of CGD into Environmental Compliance Assurance (ECA).

We argue that the quantified potential and clear alignment provided by this updated SDG mapping serve as a necessary roadmap to strategically engage policymakers, providing the evidence base required to clarify policy language, strengthen partnerships between CS Initiatives (CSIs) and authorities, and realise transformative policy influence toward collaborative ECA.