Cecília Guerra
Sciences Faculty, University of Porto, cguerra@fc.up.pt
Beitrag
Citizen Science Communication Strategies in Urban Water and Freshwater Ecosystem Projects
Cecília Guerra (1), Luísa Cardoso (2), Tiago Peralta (3), Bruno B. Castro (4) Sara C. Antunes (5)
(1) Sciences Faculty, University of Porto, cguerra@fc.up.pt
(2) Engineering Faculty, University of Porto,up202402328@edu.fe.up.pt
(3) Engineering Faculty, University of Porto, up201905013@edu.fe.up.pt
(4) Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology (CBMA), Department of Biology of the University of Minho, brunocastro@bio.uminho.pt
(5) Sciences Faculty, University of Porto, scantunes@fc.up.pt
Abstract
Citizen science has emerged as a key approach to bridging scientific knowledge production and societal engagement, fostering trust, co-creation, and shared responsibility in addressing environmental challenges. Grounded in dialogical models of science communication (Bucchi & Trench, 2008; Burns et al., 2003) and broader reflections on public engagement with science (Wynne, 1992), this contribution presents and critically reflects on the citizen science strategies implemented in two Portuguese research projects, URBAnWat3r and 2QUA.
Both projects address pressing water-related challenges, including the impacts of urbanization on aquatic biodiversity [1] and the sustainability of lentic freshwater ecosystems, particularly reservoirs [2]. Central to their approach is the development of participatory science communication (SciCom) plans grounded in citizen science principles and co-creation practices (Roche et al., 2020). These plans are supported by a design thinking methodology (Mota, Sá and Guerra, 2025), which enables iterative development, fosters stakeholder involvement, and enhances responsiveness to local contexts (Baharuddin et al., 2023).
The overarching goal of both projects is to actively involve citizens as co-creators of knowledge rather than passive recipients. In URBAnWat3r, local stakeholders (e.g., schools, municipalities, water management entities, and community groups) will participate in SciCom co-design sessions. Video-based approaches have been shown to be effective in enhancing public engagement with environmental science topics (Ferreira et al., 2023). Therefore, the interaction with local stakeholders will inform the development of an interactive digital toolkit comprising a PDF that integrates three explanatory videos (up to 1 minute each). These materials are designed to communicate the ecological risks of inadequate stormwater management by translating complex scientific data into accessible and engaging formats. Ultimately, the toolkit aims to encourage reflection on everyday practices, fostering increased environmental awareness, and promoting behavioural change.
In parallel, the 2QUA project engages local communities (e.g., teachers, students and policymakers) in the co-design and use of an immersive 3D virtual environment that represents the biodiversity of the Aguieira reservoir. This digital tool enables users to interactively explore species, habitats, and ecological processes, thereby supporting experiential learning and fostering an emotional connection with local freshwater ecosystems. The virtual environment is complemented by open-access biodiversity datasets and visual materials, reinforcing principles of transparency and accessibility. Such SciCom approaches reflect current trends in sustainability-oriented science communication, particularly in fostering environmental and sustainability literacy (Aung et al., 2025).
The involvement of society in both projects serves multiple and interconnected purposes. First, it enhances the relevance and effectiveness of science communication by aligning tools and messages with the needs, experiences, and contexts of their target audiences. Second, it strengthens trust in science through transparency, participation, and shared ownership of knowledge production. Third, it promotes long-term engagement and behavioural change, as citizens become more aware of their roles and responsibilities in promoting environmental sustainability.
This contribution examines how different digital formats (interactive video-based communication and immersive 3D environments) influence public engagement with science and trust in scientific knowledge. It further explores the opportunities and limitations associated with these approaches, particularly regarding digital accessibility and inclusivity. Ultimately, this work contributes to ongoing discussions on the role of citizen science communication in supporting knowledge co-production, strengthening relationships between science and society, and fostering more sustainable interactions with aquatic ecosystems.