Citizen Science: Helpful Participation That Makes an Impact

• June 17, 2025

Citizen science plays a significant role in marine conservation by involving non-experts in scientific data collection, monitoring, and environmental preservation.

This approach bridges the gap between scientific research and public action, allowing communities, volunteers, and ocean enthusiasts to contribute to the understanding and protection of marine ecosystems.

Data collected by citizen scientists can be as reliable as that gathered by professionals when clear protocols and training are provided.

Additionally, citizen science enables large-scale monitoring efforts that would be difficult for scientists alone to achieve, such as mapping pollution hotspots and tracking trends over time.

PHAROS Project: Engaging Stakeholders for Marine Conservation and Innovation

The PHAROS project, funded under the HORIZON-MISS-2023-OCEAN-01-03 call, is structured around three primary pillars:

• Public mobilisation
• Innovation and technology leadership
• Valorization and commercialization for the Blue Economy

Its core objective is to advance marine biodiversity conservation and restoration through nature-based solutions, with a focus on the Atlantic and Arctic regions. Key locations for project activities include Gran Canaria, Ireland, and Iceland.

PHAROS will implement a range of initiatives, such as innovations in Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA), restoration of nutrient-rich ecosystems, reduction and environmental DNA (eDNA) monitoring of invasive species, and mitigation of pollution caused by abandoned, lost, or discarded fishing gear.

The project also emphasizes capacity building by training circular entrepreneurs and engaging citizen scientists. Additionally, it supports the expansion of the Blue Schools Network, which promotes marine education and awareness among young people.

The project’s success depends on active collaboration among individuals, groups, and organizations interested in its outcomes. To facilitate stakeholder engagement, PHAROS invites interested parties to participate in events and contribute to ongoing activities.

The success of this project is based on the collaboration of all individuals, groups and organizations. We need your help!

If you wish to be involved, register for FREE through an online form, and become a PHAROS stakeholder today: 👇👇

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Citizen Science in the PHAROS Project and Sister Initiatives

The PHAROS project itself integrates citizen science to enhance marine conservation efforts.

It engages the public in monitoring marine biodiversity and pollution, contributing to large datasets that support scientific research and policy-making.

PHAROS also collaborates with sister projects like Ocean Purpose Project, which combines citizen science with community cleanups and innovative approaches such as seaweed-based biostimulants to address marine litter.

These collaborations amplify the impact of citizen science by linking data collection with tangible conservation actions.

How to Get Involved in Marine Citizen Science

Individuals interested in participating in marine citizen science can start by joining local or international initiatives aligned with their interests and capacities. Many projects provide training and clear protocols to ensure data quality and volunteer safety.

Participation can range from simple observations and data submissions to active involvement in community education and conservation events. By contributing to these efforts, citizens help fill critical data gaps, support marine management, and foster a culture of environmental stewardship.

Citizen science empowers public participation in marine conservation by enabling non-experts to contribute valuable data and engage in environmental action. Successful initiatives like Reef Check Australia, Redmap, Snapshot Cal Coast, and PHAROS demonstrate how citizen involvement supports scientific research, policy development, and community education. These projects illustrate pathways for individuals to get involved and make meaningful contributions to ocean health.

Sources

• Ocean Purpose Project. (2025, May 28). The power of community and citizen science: Bridging science and action for our oceans. LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/ocean-purpose-project_citizenscience-oceanconservation-communityaction-activity-7333420597000982528-DRdv
• Jones, R., et al. (2017). Making waves: Marine citizen science for impact. Frontiers in Marine Science, 4, 146. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2017.00146
• Gallo, N., et al. (2020). Citizen science and marine conservation: A global review. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B, 375(1801), 20190461. https://doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2019.0461