Citizen Science & conservation: how to make a difference while travelling

In the face of accelerating biodiversity loss and environmental degradation, conservation has become more urgent than ever. While scientists and environmental organisations work tirelessly to protect ecosystems, they often face a daunting challenge: a lack of data. This is where citizen science steps in—empowering everyday people, including travellers, to contribute to scientific research and environmental monitoring.

What Is Citizen Science?

Citizen science involves public participation in scientific research, typically by collecting data, making observations, or helping analyse results. In the context of conservation, citizen scientists help gather vital information about species distribution, habitat conditions, and ecosystem changes—data that scientists can’t always collect alone due to limited time, funding, or geographic reach.

Why Citizen Science Matters for Conservation

1. Filling Data Gaps
   Scientists can’t be everywhere, but people are everywhere. Citizen scientists help monitor areas that might otherwise be ignored, from remote mountain trails to city parks.
2. Long-Term Monitoring
   Ongoing observations by volunteers can track trends over time, revealing the impact of climate change, invasive species, or urban expansion.
3. Public Engagement and Awareness
   When people actively contribute to conservation science, they become more invested in protecting the natural world, often becoming advocates in their communities.

How Travellers Can Get Involved

Travellers are uniquely positioned to contribute to conservation efforts. Whether you’re hiking in a national park, snorkelling around coral reefs, or simply exploring a new city, you can turn your journey into an opportunity to support biodiversity research.

Here are some practical ways you can participate in citizen science:

1. Use iNaturalist to Record Wildlife

One of the most popular platforms, iNaturalist, allows users to upload photos of plants, animals, and fungi. The app uses AI and a community of experts to help identify species, and the data is used by researchers around the world.

Tips:

• Photograph wildlife with clear angles, especially close-ups of leaves, flowers, or animal markings.
• Note the location and habitat.
• Log even common species—these help build a complete picture of biodiversity.

2. Join Local Conservation Projects

Many destinations host programmes where travellers can volunteer, such as sea turtle monitoring and reef restoration. Kodama Travel works with local conservationists on conservation projects. Check out our Conservation Tours.

3. Monitor Marine Life with Apps Like Reef Check or eOceans

If you dive or snorkel, you can contribute to marine science. Apps like Reef Check, eOceans, and MantaBase allow you to record fish sightings, coral health, and more.

4. Track Pollution

Apps like Marine Debris Tracker allow travellers to log litter found on beaches or hiking trails. These records help scientists study pollution patterns and guide cleanup strategies.

It is also a good idea to do some beach cleaning during your non-dive day 😃

Responsible Participation Tips

• Follow ethical wildlife practices: Don’t disturb animals or remove plants just to get a photo.
• Respect local guidelines: Some areas restrict data collection for conservation or cultural reasons.
• Leave no trace: Ensure your involvement doesn’t negatively impact the environment.

So the next time you explore a forest trail, dive into a reef, or even stroll through a neighbourhood park, bring your smartphone—and your curiosity—and join the movement to protect the natural world.