Developing the global potential of citizen science: Assessing opportunities that benefit people, society and the environment in East Africa

Author
Pocock Michael J. O.
Roy Helen E.
August T.A.
Kuria Anthony
Barasa Fred
Bett John
Githiru Mwangi
Kairo James
Kimani Julius
Kinuthia Wanja
Kissui Bernard
Madindou Ireene
Mbogo Kamau
Mirembe Judith
Mugo Paul
Muniale Faith Milkah
Njoroge Peter
Njuguna Edwin Gichohi
Olendo Mike Izava
Opige Michael
Otieno Tobias O.
Ng'weno Caroline Chebet
Pallangyo Elisha
Thenya Thuita
Wanjiru Ann
Trevelyan Rosie
Abstract

1. Citizen science is gaining increasing prominence as a tool for science and engagement. However, despite being a potentially valuable tool for sustainable development, citizen science has little visibility in many developing countries. 2. We undertook a collaborative prioritisation process with experts in conservation and the environment to assess the potential of environmental citizen science in East Africa, including its opportunities, benefits and barriers. This provided principles that are applicable across developing countries, particularly for large-scale citizen science. 3. We found that there was great potential for citizen science to add to our scientific knowledge of natural resources and biodiversity trends. Many of the important benefits of citizen science were for people, as well as the environment directly. Major barriers to citizen science were mostly social and institutional, although projects should also consider access to suitable technology and language barriers. 4. Policy implications: Citizen science can provide data to support decision-making and reporting against international targets. Participation can also provide societal benefits, informing and empowering people, thus supporting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. In developing countries, innovation is needed to further develop culturally relevant citizen science that benefits participants and end users. This should be supported through regional networks of stakeholders for sharing best practice.

Year of Publication
2019
Journal
Journal of Applied Ecology
Type of Article
Journal Article
URL
DOI
doi:10.1111/1365-2664.13279
Research themes
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