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Short Abstract

Since 2022, Emilia-Romagna Region has developed a regional Citizen Science framework. This paper presents results from the first experimentation, analyzing strengths and challenges of a meso-level institutional approach, and proposing the framework as a replicable model for other territories.

Abstract

Scientific literature and countless practical experiences show us how Citizen Science can be a truly powerful tool to raise citizens' awareness on socially relevant issues, and expanding the availability of data on phenomena that are of great interest (for the public, government, science,...).

In this sense, Citizen Science holds enormous potential for policy making, and for fostering inclusion and participation.

According to these statements, in 2022, Emilia-Romagna Region, in collaboration with its in-house companies (Lepida and ART-ER), started the CitizER Science project, with the aim to foster the growth and spread of Citizen Science initiatives in Emilia-Romagna through the creation of a regional conceptual framework.

The paper presents the main results of the first experimentation of the project and the framework, explaining both: advantages and strengths of the meso-level institutional approach to the Citizen Science phenomenon, on regional level; and critical issues and challenges addressed during the path.

The experience of Regione Emilia-Romagna, a pioneer both in Italy and at European level, now seeks to reflect on critical issues and opportunities for scaling up, and to propose its conceptual framework as a replicable model for other Italian regions.

The experiences developed through CitizER Science show that involving citizens – especially younger generations – in data collection, awareness-raising and co-design activities can foster civic engagement and trust in institutions.

Citizen Science is not only a tool for gathering information, but can be a driver of cultural and institutional change.