PILOT STUDIES
Our Pilot Studies test and demonstrate how marine citizen science data can be collected, standardised, and integrated into major data platforms using cost-efficient technologies.
By being a training ground for our methods, they bring together citizens, scientists, and technology providers to address real-world marine monitoring challenges in diverse European regions to prove the value, quality, and impact of citizen-contributed data for science and policy.
CS-MACH1’s pilot studies will be carried out in carefully selected coastal and marine sites across Northern and Southern Europe, representing different environmental and socio-economic contexts. In each location, citizen scientists — including divers, sailors, and local communities — will work alongside researchers and technology providers to deploy cost-efficient sensors and follow standardised sampling protocols. Data will cover key parameters such as sea temperature, salinity, biodiversity observations, and pollution indicators, with a strong focus on ensuring FAIR compliance and high-quality metadata.
These pilots will test the full data value chain: from local collection to integration into major repositories. Beyond data gathering, they will help refine training materials, validate best practices, and demonstrate how citizen science can complement traditional monitoring, inform policy, and strengthen community engagement in marine conservation.
