MedSeaPod research project on the temperature of the Mediterranean Sea kicks off: a Citizen Science approach to monitor the temperature of ultra-coastal waters.
In an innovative collaboration between scientific institutions, businesses and science-loving citizens, the MedSeaPod research project has been officially launched with a special focus on sea temperature in ultra-coastal waters. This initiative incorporates a citizen science approach, which will seek to directly engage theSt. Peter’s Island community in monitoring thermal changes in our marine environment.
The project aims to collect detailed sea temperature data in near-shore areas that are often overlooked in traditional oceanographic surveys. The proximity to the mainland makes these waters particularly sensitive to anthropogenic impacts and climate change.
The project is entrusted to a temporary business association involving a scientific institution, CNR IAS, and a company, Netsoul srl, which is active in the field of new technologies. The project will also make use of the collaboration of Maraltro srls, a company operating in the field of communication
What will make this project unique is the involvement of citizens, who will be equipped with special sea temperature sensors and receive training to actively contribute to the research through data collection or dissemination of results.
Participants, or “citizen scientists,” will be involved in measuring temperatures through the use of state-of-the-art data loggers. The tools provided are designed to be user-friendly, allowing anyone to participate, regardless of experience level.
Dr. Sergio Stagno, project coordinator, said, “We chose to take a citizen science approach to engage the community of Carloforte in the conservation of our marine environment. Monitoring ultra-coastal temperatures is crucial to better understand marine dynamics and address challenges related to climate change.”
Data collected by participants will be integrated into a dedicated online platform accessible to the public and scientists, facilitating collaboration and information sharing. The team will go to great lengths to ensure that this project not only provides new insights into sea temperature, but also raises community awareness of the importance of conserving marine ecosystems.
The MedSeaPod pilot project is a significant step toward democratizing scientific research and could pave the way for future citizen science projects dedicated to understanding and conserving our precious marine heritage.
