The National Environment Service (NES) hosted a Citizen Science Training and Workshop in Aitutaki to strengthen GROW Aitutaki’s understanding of citizen science and its role in environmental monitoring and reporting. Citizen science is when communities support the collection and sharing of environmental data, allowing them to play a direct role in protecting their environment.
Under the project “Informing the State of Environment Reporting through Citizen Science for Environmental Resilience,” supported by SPREP and the ACPMEAs 3 programme, the workshop featured the Citizen Science Portal, a new platform developed by NES that allows the public to submit data digitally. While live, the portal continues to be refined through community testing and feedback.
Led by Maria Maoate, NES Research & Data Coordinator, the workshop combined presentations with hands-on practice. Participants learned how local knowledge and observations can complement scientific research and strengthen the Cook Island’s State of Environment reporting.
Using the Map Marker app and NES-provided iPads, participants practiced recording field data and adding geospatial information to maps. They then applied their learning in the field during a coral propagation activity, testing digital tools to record their work. These tools are part of NES’s citizen science approach, combining technology and observations to produce reliable environmental data.
The workshop is one of several community engagements NES is carrying out to raise awareness of citizen science and support community-led action in environmental protection. NES will continue to provide guidance and support to help GROW Aitutaki build on their citizen science initiatives. Through citizen science, communities contribute data while building knowledge, skills, and a stronger connection to their environment.
Check out the Citizen Science Portal at environment.gov.ck/citizenscience
