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Mulenga M, Monde C, Johnson T, Ouma KO, Syampungani S. Advances in the integration of microalgal communities for biomonitoring of metal pollution in aquatic ecosystems of sub-Saharan Africa. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:40795-40817. [PMID: 38822177 PMCID: PMC11190019 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-33781-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
This review elucidated the recent advances in integrating microalgal communities in monitoring metal pollution in aquatic ecosystems of sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). It also highlighted the potential of incorporating microalgae as bioindicators in emerging technologies, identified research gaps, and suggested directions for further research in biomonitoring of metal pollution. Reputable online scholarly databases were used to identify research articles published between January 2000 and June 2023 for synthesis. Results indicated that microalgae were integrated either individually or combined with other bioindicators, mainly macroinvertebrates, macrophytes, and fish, alongside physicochemical monitoring. There was a significantly low level of integration (< 1%) of microalgae for biomonitoring aquatic metal pollution in SSA compared to other geographical regions. Microalgal communities were employed to assess compliance (76%), in diagnosis (38%), and as early-warning systems (38%) of aquatic ecological health status. About 14% of biomonitoring studies integrated microalgal eDNA, while other technologies, such as remote sensing, artificial intelligence, and biosensors, are yet to be significantly incorporated. Nevertheless, there is potential for the aforementioned emerging technologies for monitoring aquatic metal pollution in SSA. Future monitoring in the region should also consider the standardisation and synchronisation of integrative biomonitoring and embrace the "Citizen Science" concept at national and regional scales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Mulenga
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Mathematics & Natural Sciences, Copperbelt University, P. O. Box 21692, Kitwe, Zambia.
- Chair-Environment & Development, Oliver R Tambo Africa Research Chair Initiative (ORTARChI), Copperbelt University, P. O. Box 21692, Kitwe, Zambia.
| | - Concillia Monde
- Department of Zoology & Aquatic Sciences, School of Natural Resources, Copperbelt University, P. O. Box 21692, Kitwe, Zambia
- Chair-Environment & Development, Oliver R Tambo Africa Research Chair Initiative (ORTARChI), Copperbelt University, P. O. Box 21692, Kitwe, Zambia
| | - Todd Johnson
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Mathematics & Natural Sciences, Copperbelt University, P. O. Box 21692, Kitwe, Zambia
| | - Kennedy O Ouma
- Department of Zoology & Aquatic Sciences, School of Natural Resources, Copperbelt University, P. O. Box 21692, Kitwe, Zambia
| | - Stephen Syampungani
- Department of Plant & Environmental Sciences, School of Natural Resources, Copperbelt University, P. O. Box 21692, Kitwe, Zambia
- Chair-Environment & Development, Oliver R Tambo Africa Research Chair Initiative (ORTARChI), Copperbelt University, P. O. Box 21692, Kitwe, Zambia
- Forest Science Postgraduate Program, Department of Plant & Soil Sciences, Plant Sciences Complex, University of Pretoria, Private Bag x20, Hatfield, Pretoria, 0002, South Africa
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Cole NL, Kormann E, Klebel T, Apartis S, Ross-Hellauer T. The societal impact of Open Science: a scoping review. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2024; 11:240286. [PMID: 39100167 PMCID: PMC11296153 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.240286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
Open Science (OS) aims, in part, to drive greater societal impact of academic research. Government, funder and institutional policies state that it should further democratize research and increase learning and awareness, evidence-based policy-making, the relevance of research to society's problems, and public trust in research. Yet, measuring the societal impact of OS has proven challenging and synthesized evidence of it is lacking. This study fills this gap by systematically scoping the existing evidence of societal impact driven by OS and its various aspects, including Citizen Science (CS), Open Access (OA), Open/FAIR Data (OFD), Open Code/Software and others. Using the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews and searches conducted in Web of Science, Scopus and relevant grey literature, we identified 196 studies that contain evidence of societal impact. The majority concern CS, with some focused on OA, and only a few addressing other aspects. Key areas of impact found are education and awareness, climate and environment, and social engagement. We found no literature documenting evidence of the societal impact of OFD and limited evidence of societal impact in terms of policy, health, and trust in academic research. Our findings demonstrate a critical need for additional evidence and suggest practical and policy implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicki Lisa Cole
- Open and Reproducible Research Group, Sandgasse 36, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Eva Kormann
- Open and Reproducible Research Group, Sandgasse 36, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Thomas Klebel
- Open and Reproducible Research Group, Sandgasse 36, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Simon Apartis
- Open and Reproducible Research Group, Sandgasse 36, 8010 Graz, Austria
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3
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Cray H, Parker B. Community science for assessing the vulnerability of freshwater ecosystems: Water quality monitoring, restoration, and outreach by young naturalists in Nova Scotia, Canada. Sci Prog 2024; 107:368504241257040. [PMID: 38794904 PMCID: PMC11128165 DOI: 10.1177/00368504241257040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Community science models that complement formal scientific investigations are valuable tools for addressing gaps in knowledge and engaging the community. Freshwater quality monitoring and vulnerability assessment, for example, are essential for conserving freshwater ecosystems, but often suffer from limited resources. While municipal programs focus on priority areas, community-based models can improve overall coverage both spatially and temporally. As an example of how community science initiatives centered on freshwater ecosystems enhance monitoring capacity, we present the case of the Young Naturalists Club (YNC) in Nova Scotia, Canada. The YNC's Nature Guardians program involves youth aged 10-14 in water monitoring, restoration, and outreach activities within Shubie Park, in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. Between 2018 and 2021 the Nature Guardians collected water monitoring data at multiple park locations, and shared findings with city authorities and the Atlantic Water Network. In response to high bacteria counts, and concerns over nutrient influxes, the group's 2021-2023 restoration efforts have aimed to improve water quality, focusing on native plantings and outreach signage. This type of community-based monitoring offers several advantages, including local site selection based on community concerns, the potential for low-cost long-term monitoring, and community engagement. While a community-based monitoring model presents certain challenges including data standardization and verification, it offers a broader reach and can produce high-quality data when appropriate protocols are followed. This case underscores the potential of a community-based water quality monitoring approach and highlights the potential for community science to augment existing assessment structures, ultimately contributing to more resilient and sustainable freshwater ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Cray
- School for Resource and Environmental Studies, Kenneth C. Rowe Management Building, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Becky Parker
- Young Naturalist Club, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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4
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Zhi W, Appling AP, Golden HE, Podgorski J, Li L. Deep learning for water quality. NATURE WATER 2024; 2:228-241. [PMID: 38846520 PMCID: PMC11151732 DOI: 10.1038/s44221-024-00202-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Understanding and predicting the quality of inland waters are challenging, particularly in the context of intensifying climate extremes expected in the future. These challenges arise partly due to complex processes that regulate water quality, and arduous and expensive data collection that exacerbate the issue of data scarcity. Traditional process-based and statistical models often fall short in predicting water quality. In this Review, we posit that deep learning represents an underutilized yet promising approach that can unravel intricate structures and relationships in high-dimensional data. We demonstrate that deep learning methods can help address data scarcity by filling temporal and spatial gaps and aid in formulating and testing hypotheses via identifying influential drivers of water quality. This Review highlights the strengths and limitations of deep learning methods relative to traditional approaches, and underscores its potential as an emerging and indispensable approach in overcoming challenges and discovering new knowledge in water-quality sciences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhi
- The National Key Laboratory of Water Disaster Prevention, Yangtze Institute for Conservation and Development, Key Laboratory of Hydrologic-Cycle and Hydrodynamic-System of Ministry of Water Resources, Hohai University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | | | - Heather E Golden
- Office of Research and Development, US Environmental Protection Agency, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Joel Podgorski
- Department of Water Resources and Drinking Water, Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology (EAWAG), Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Li Li
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
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Sarker S, Krug LA, Islam KM, Basak SC, Huda ANMS, Hossain MS, Das N, Riya SC, Liyana E, Chowdhury GW. An integrated coastal ecosystem monitoring strategy: Pilot case in Naf-Saint Martin Peninsula, Bangladesh. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 913:169718. [PMID: 38163602 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Rapid population growth creating an excessive pressure on the marine environment and thus monitoring of marine ecosystem is essential. However, due to high technical and financial involvement, monitoring of coastal ecosystem is always challenging in developing countries. This study aims to develop an integrated coastal ecosystem monitoring system that combines scientific sampling, numerical model simulation and citizen science observations to monitor the coastal ecosystem of Bangladesh. This concept of integrated monitoring approach was piloted from January 2022 to April 2023 at the South East coastal zone of Bangladesh. Scientific sampling and numerical model simulations were performed for temperature and salinity data collection. Citizen science approach was employed to collect data on environmental conditions, fisheries, plankton, other marine resources, and plastic pollution. Numerical model simulations and citizen scientists observations of temperature and salinity showed good agreement with the scientifically collected data. In addition, citizen scientists observations on fisheries, plankton, other marine resources and plastic pollution were also in line with the existing database and previous studies. The proposed integrated monitoring approach presents a viable technique, creating a new avenue for coastal and marine ecosystem monitoring where infrastructural facilities are limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subrata Sarker
- Department of Oceanography, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Bangladesh.
| | - Lilian A Krug
- Partnership for Observation of the Global Ocean (POGO), United Kingdom; Algarve Centre of Marine Sciences (CCMAR), University of Algarve, Portugal
| | - Kazi Mainul Islam
- Department of Geography and Environment, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Bangladesh
| | - Shyamal Chandra Basak
- Bangladesh Civil Service (34th BCS, Administration Cadre), Government of the People's Republic of Bangladesh, Bangladesh
| | - A N M Samiul Huda
- Department of Oceanography, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Bangladesh
| | - Md Shahadat Hossain
- Department of Oceanography, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Bangladesh
| | - Nabanita Das
- Department of Oceanography, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Bangladesh
| | | | - Eurida Liyana
- Department of Oceanography, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Bangladesh
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Le TAT, Vodden K, Wu J, Bullock R, Sabau G. Payments for ecosystem services programs: A global review of contributions towards sustainability. Heliyon 2024; 10:e22361. [PMID: 38173537 PMCID: PMC10761366 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e22361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Payments for ecosystem services programs (PESPs) are increasingly being adopted globally to enhance sustainability outcomes. There are also hundreds of studies yearly on various aspects of PESPs, but research on their contributions to sustainability of communities and the ecosystems they depend upon at the global scale are rare. Our global review explores twelve key characteristics of PESPs at three different phases (inputs - implementation - outputs and outcomes) and their relationship types of these characteristics to sustainability outcomes. To do so, we review 376 peer-review journal articles on PESPs, and test three hypotheses related to these relationships. Our findings confirm that the relationships between each of these characteristics and sustainability outcomes are bidirectional and/or multidirectional to some extent and can be positive, negative or both, depending on specific cases and research methods used to study these relationships. The findings also disclose that separating one characteristic as the primary causal factor in any relationship or outcome is not easy as relevant characteristics are linked in a complex network. Thereby, determining key characteristics of PESPs that drive relationships for the sake of sustainability is important. Through analyzing relationships between PESP characteristics, this study offers a series of suggestions to further aid the contributions of PESPs' contributions to sustainability in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuyet-Anh T. Le
- School of Science and the Environment, Grenfell Campus, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Corner Brook, NL A2H 5G4, Canada
- Environmental Policy Institute, Grenfell Campus, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Corner Brook, NL A2H 5G4, Canada
- Forestry Economics Research Centre, Vietnamese Academy of Forest Sciences, 46 Duc Thang ward, Northern Tu Liem, Hanoi 11910, Vietnam
| | - Kelly Vodden
- School of Science and the Environment, Grenfell Campus, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Corner Brook, NL A2H 5G4, Canada
- Environmental Policy Institute, Grenfell Campus, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Corner Brook, NL A2H 5G4, Canada
| | - Jianghua Wu
- School of Science and the Environment, Grenfell Campus, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Corner Brook, NL A2H 5G4, Canada
| | - Ryan Bullock
- Department of Environmental Studies and Sciences, The University of Winnipeg, 515 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3B2E9, Canada
| | - Gabriela Sabau
- School of Science and the Environment, Grenfell Campus, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Corner Brook, NL A2H 5G4, Canada
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7
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Ramírez SB, van Meerveld I, Seibert J. Citizen science approaches for water quality measurements. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 897:165436. [PMID: 37433338 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
Citizen science has become a widely used approach in water quality studies. Although there are literature reviews about citizen science and water quality assessments, an overview of the most commonly used methods and their strengths and weaknesses is still lacking. Therefore, we reviewed the scientific literature on citizen science for surface water quality assessments and examined the methods and strategies used by the 72 studies that fulfilled our search criteria. Special attention was given to the parameters monitored, the monitoring tools, and the spatial and temporal resolution of the data collected in these studies. In addition, we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the different approaches used in water quality assessments and their potential to complement traditional hydrological monitoring and research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jan Seibert
- Department of Geography, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland; Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
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8
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Li H, Zheng S, Tan QG, Zhan L, Martz TR, Ma J. Toward Citizen Science-Based Ocean Acidification Observations Using Smartphone Devices. Anal Chem 2023; 95:15409-15417. [PMID: 37734114 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c03720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
pH is a key parameter in many chemical, biological, and biogeochemical processes, making it a fundamental aspect of environmental monitoring. Rapid and accurate seawater pH measurements are essential for effective ocean observation and acidification investigations, resulting in the need for novel solutions that allow robust, precise, and affordable pH monitoring. In this study, a versatile smartphone-based environmental analyzer (vSEA) was used for the rapid measurement of seawater pH in a field study. The feasibility of the use of the vSEA algorithm for pH quantification was explored and verified. When used in conjunction with a three-dimensional (3D)-printed light-proof shell, the quality of captured images is guaranteed. The quantitative accuracy of vSEA pH measurements reached 0.018 units with an uncertainty of <0.01, meeting the requirements of the Global Ocean Acidification Observing Network (GOA-ON) for "weather" goals (permitting a maximum pH uncertainty of 0.02). The vSEA-pH system was successfully applied for on-site pH measurements in coastal seawater and coral systems. The performance of the vSEA-pH system was validated using different real-world samples, and t-test results showed that the vSEA-pH system was consistent with pH measurements obtained using a state-of-the-art benchtop spectrophotometer (t = 1.986, p = 0.7949). The vSEA-pH system is applicable to different types of smartphone devices, making it possible for vSEA-pH to be widely promoted for public citizen use. The vSEA-pH system offers a simple, accurate, and applicable method for the on-site measurement of seawater pH, assisting the large-scale monitoring of ocean acidification by allowing the contribution of citizen science-based data collection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hangqian Li
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of the Environment and Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, People's Republic of China
| | - Shulu Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of the Environment and Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiao-Guo Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of the Environment and Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, People's Republic of China
| | - Liyang Zhan
- Third Institute of Oceanography, Key Laboratory of Global Change & Marine Atmospheric Chemistry, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361000, People's Republic of China
| | - Todd R Martz
- Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California 92093, United States
| | - Jian Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of the Environment and Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, People's Republic of China
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9
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Moshi HA, Shilla DA, Brehim J, Kimirei I, O'Reilly C, Loiselle S. Sustainable Management of the African Great Lake Coastal Areas: Motivations and Perspectives of Community Citizen Scientists. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023:10.1007/s00267-023-01824-x. [PMID: 37154906 PMCID: PMC10371893 DOI: 10.1007/s00267-023-01824-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
The long-term sustainability of the African Great Lakes is strongly connected to the management and monitoring of their coastal areas. Yet, the communities that live in these areas are rarely involved in monitoring and have limited influence on key management issues. Furthermore, regulatory activities and knowledge sharing in these transnational ecosystems are strongly limited by funding and infrastructure limitations. Citizen science has great potential to advance both scientific and public understanding of the state of the environment. However, there remains a limited understanding of participants' motivations and expectations, especially in developing countries, where citizen science has great potential to complement regulatory monitoring. The present study explores the motivations of citizen scientists in villages along Lake Tanganyika's northern coast and their potential to take a more active role in lake management. Motivations were examined through qualitative interviews, focus groups, and quantitative surveys with 110 citizen scientists and 110 non-citizen scientists from participating villages. Key motivational factors identified were the desire to contribute to scientific research and local knowledge, as well as aspects of financial compensation. The results confirm that participation in citizen science provides many benefits to participants beyond their role as data aggregators and final knowledge users. However, the incentives to participation varied to those typically considered in citizen science programs conducted in developed countries. To create sustainable long-term community based environmental monitoring, these motivations should be incorporated in the program design and participant recruitment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Happiness Anold Moshi
- Tanzania Fisheries Research Institute, Kigoma Centre P.O. Box 90, Kigoma, Tanzania.
- Department of Aquatic Sciences and Fisheries Technology, University of Dar es Salaam, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
| | - Daniel Abel Shilla
- Department of Aquatic Sciences and Fisheries Technology, University of Dar es Salaam, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Joan Brehim
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Campus Box 4660, Schroeder Hall 332, Illinois State University, Normal, IL, 61790-4660, USA
| | - Ismael Kimirei
- Tanzania Fisheries Research Institute, Dar es Salaam Headquarters, P.O. Box 9750, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Catherine O'Reilly
- Department of Geography, Geology and the Environment, Illinois State University, Normal, IL, USA
| | - Steven Loiselle
- Earthwatch Europe, 255 Banbury Road, Oxford, UK.
- University of Siena, INSTM, Via Aldo Moro 2, Siena, Italy.
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10
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Pecly JOG. Strategies to obtain a better quality of environmental data gathered by low cost systems. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2023; 195:289. [PMID: 36627503 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-022-10805-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Monitoring systems are ubiquitous in many environmental science fields due to the technological advances in the last decades, which contributed to the migration from conventional to automated observing networks. However, the cost of acquisition and operation of sensor networks is still a limiting factor for their wide use. Under this scenario, low-cost and affordable open-source sensors and systems emerge as an alternative to research-grade instruments. To fulfill the quality requirements defined by international organizations, sensor calibration has to be performed and shall be considered as a basic requirement. Best monitoring practices including established quality control procedures should be implemented for gathering environmental data. With a focus on data gathering, this paper reviews basic concepts on open source technologies, calibration methods, quality control procedures, applications and trends, and possibilities for improving the hardware of low-cost and affordable systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Otávio Goulart Pecly
- Ocean Engineering Program/COPPE, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Centro de Tecnologia, Bloco C sala 209, Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-914, Brazil.
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11
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Joseph N, Sangster J, Topping M, Bartelt-Hunt S, Kolok AS. Evaluating the impact of turbidity, precipitation, and land use on nutrient levels and atrazine concentrations in Illinois surface water as determined by citizen scientists. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 850:158081. [PMID: 35985591 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.158081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of turbidity, precipitation, land use, and five-week variation on nutrient levels and atrazine concentrations across Illinois state. To acquire the greatest number of samples in a cost and time-sensitive manner, data were collected by citizen scientists. Volunteers collected data regarding five water quality metrics: nitrites, nitrates, phosphates, atrazine, and turbidity once per week from April 19 until May 17, 2017. A subset (24 %) of volunteers also collected turbidity measurements. Data regarding precipitation was obtained from the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network (CoCoRaHS), a long-standing grassroots volunteer network of backyard weather observers. Three ordinal regression analyses were performed: one without a blocking effect, a second with week as a blocking effect, and a third with watershed as a blocking effect. In all cases, turbidity was significantly associated with elevated levels of nitrate (Pseudo R2-0.48 to 0.94) and phosphate (Pseudo R2-0.60 to 0.80), while precipitation was significantly associated with elevated levels of nitrate (Pseudo R2-0.25 to 0.35). While analyzing five-week variation, the nitrite and nitrate levels, but not phosphate or atrazine, tended to increase at each site. Further, nitrite and nitrate levels significantly varied between the four land uses - agricultural, urban, suburban, and park. When data were analyzed by the three most well-sampled watersheds, Kankakee, Des Plaines, and Chicago, it was identified that the nutrient levels in the Kankakee and Chicago watersheds were significantly elevated relative to the Des Plaines watershed. Finally, cluster analysis identified that clusters dominated by agricultural land, and to a lesser extent suburban land use, had the most elevated nutrient concentration and the greatest frequency of atrazine hits. Data collected by citizen scientists can provide insight into the geospatial variability of nutrients and agrichemicals and can do so across large geographies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naveen Joseph
- Idaho Water Resources Research Institute, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, USA
| | - Jodi Sangster
- Department of Civil Engineering, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, USA
| | - Melissa Topping
- Idaho Water Resources Research Institute, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, USA
| | | | - Alan S Kolok
- Idaho Water Resources Research Institute, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID, USA.
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12
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Worthmann C, Esterhuyse S. A mobile application to protect groundwater during unconventional oil and gas extraction. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2022; 9:220221. [PMID: 36117866 PMCID: PMC9470257 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.220221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Unconventional oil and gas (UOG) is an important energy source for many countries, but requires large quantities of water for its development, and may pollute water resources. Regulations are one of the main tools to achieve government policy on natural resource protection. South Africa, which is energy-constrained, but also water-scarce, is currently considering UOG extraction as an additional energy resource. UOG development could commence as soon as regulations to protect natural resources such as water have been published. Such regulations are, however, often not effectively enforced, which negatively affects the protection of water resources during UOG extraction. This study addresses these enforcement challenges in South Africa. It focuses on the science-society-policy interface by proposing a civic informatics platform to assist with on-the-ground enforcement of regulations via a mobile application. This mobile application aims to address both groundwater monitoring and management as well as UOG extraction operations in a single platform, to enable regulators to protect groundwater resources more effectively during UOG extraction, while simultaneously enhancing transparency in the UOG industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charissa Worthmann
- Centre for Environmental Management, University of the Free State, P.O. Box 339, Bloemfontein, Free State 9301, South Africa
| | - Surina Esterhuyse
- Centre for Environmental Management, University of the Free State, P.O. Box 339, Bloemfontein, Free State 9301, South Africa
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13
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Ifejika Speranza C, Akinyemi FO, Baratoux D, Benveniste J, Ceperley N, Driouech F, Helmschrot J. Enhancing the Uptake of Earth Observation Products and Services in Africa Through a Multi-level Transdisciplinary Approach. SURVEYS IN GEOPHYSICS 2022; 44:7-41. [PMID: 36032547 PMCID: PMC9398042 DOI: 10.1007/s10712-022-09724-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Africa stands to gain from Earth Observation (EO) science, products and applications. However, its use and application remain below potential on the continent. This article examines how EO can better serve the needs of African users. First, we argue that a successful uptake of EO services is conditional on understanding the African context and matching EO development and deployment to it. Using reference cases, we find that actors outside Africa drive most EO initiatives, whereas country-level expenditures on EO remain low. Recent developments, such as the African space policy and strategy, and initiatives in partnerships with Africa-based organisations to develop a community of practice on EO hold the potential to fill the identified gaps. The analysis indicates that most EO users are either government organisations or researchers, with very few cases involving other types of users. It is generally assumed that users at the local levels are educated and digitally literate, or that the transmission of EO-based knowledge is achieved by government officers and researchers. Although still very few, potentials are emerging for the private sector to deploy EO products and services such as crop or index-based insurance directly to farmers. These private initiatives have prospects for further developing indigenous EO capacity as envisioned in the African space policy and strategy. We then formulate recommendations for a transdisciplinary approach that integrates user contexts, attributes and needs to enhance the uptake of EO products and services in Africa. We conclude by proposing actions to close some of the identified gaps and seize emerging opportunities. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10712-022-09724-1.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - David Baratoux
- Géosciences Environnement Toulouse, University of Toulouse, CNRS & IRD, 14 Av Édouard Belin, 31400 Toulouse, France
- UFR Sciences de la Terre et des Ressources Minières, Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Abidjan-Cocody, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Jérôme Benveniste
- Directorate of Earth Observation Programmes, EO Science, Applications and Climate Department, European Space Agency (ESA-ESRIN), Largo Galileo Galilei, 1, 00044 Frascati, RM Italy
| | - Natalie Ceperley
- Institute of Geography, University of Bern, Hallerstrasse 12, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Fatima Driouech
- Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, IWRI, Ben Guerir, Morocco
| | - Jörg Helmschrot
- Stellenbosch University Water Institute, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602 South Africa
- Institute of Meteorology and Climate Research, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Wolfgang-Gaede-Str. 1, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany
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14
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Geospatial Artificial Intelligence (GeoAI) in the Integrated Hydrological and Fluvial Systems Modeling: Review of Current Applications and Trends. WATER 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/w14142211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
This paper reviews the current GeoAI and machine learning applications in hydrological and hydraulic modeling, hydrological optimization problems, water quality modeling, and fluvial geomorphic and morphodynamic mapping. GeoAI effectively harnesses the vast amount of spatial and non-spatial data collected with the new automatic technologies. The fast development of GeoAI provides multiple methods and techniques, although it also makes comparisons between different methods challenging. Overall, selecting a particular GeoAI method depends on the application’s objective, data availability, and user expertise. GeoAI has shown advantages in non-linear modeling, computational efficiency, integration of multiple data sources, high accurate prediction capability, and the unraveling of new hydrological patterns and processes. A major drawback in most GeoAI models is the adequate model setting and low physical interpretability, explainability, and model generalization. The most recent research on hydrological GeoAI has focused on integrating the physical-based models’ principles with the GeoAI methods and on the progress towards autonomous prediction and forecasting systems.
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15
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Citizen Science Impact on Environmental Monitoring towards SDGs Indicators: The CASE of SIMILE Project. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14138107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study presents the ongoing activities of citizen science (CS) monitoring of lake water quality that was developed in the SIMILE project. After presenting the tools and the initiatives that were implemented to gather volunteer contributions, the CS data are analyzed: to understand the main factors driving the contribution provided by citizens, through a proximity analysis using hierarchical clustering; to evaluate their added value and complementary nature in view of the proposed integrated lake monitoring with respect to remote sensing (RS) water quality parameters maps and in situ high-frequency monitoring (HFM) data that were acquired in the framework of SIMILE project, through an intercomparison of temperature data; and to highlight water quality patterns in the lakes under study. It is then discussed how the project outcomes could directly or indirectly contribute to the measurement of specific Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) indicators highlighting the potential impact of CS activities. The conclusions highlight the complementary nature of CS and the need of supporting activities for a continuous lake water quality monitoring. The possibility for the partner local authorities to maintain the CS monitoring establishing a Citizen Observatory (CO) and the opportunity to extend the SIMILE approach to neighboring lakes and beyond is also discussed.
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16
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Zheng S, Li H, Fang T, Bo G, Yuan D, Ma J. Towards citizen science. On-site detection of nitrite and ammonium using a smartphone and social media software. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 815:152613. [PMID: 34998751 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.152613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Citizen scientists-based water quality surveys are becoming popular because of their wide applications in environmental monitoring and public education. At present, many similar studies are reported on collecting samples for later laboratory analysis. For environmentally toxic analytes such as ammonium and nitrite, on-site detection is a promising choice. However, this approach is limited by the availability of suitable methods and instruments. Here, a simple on-site detection method for ammonium and nitrite is reported. The chemistry of this method is based on the classic Griess reaction and modified indophenol blue reaction. Digital image colorimetry is carried out using a smartphone with a custom-made WeChat mini-program or free built-in applications (APPs). Using a simple and low-cost analytical kit, the detection limit of 0.27 μmol/L and 0.84 μmol/L is achieved for nitrite and ammonium, respectively, which are comparable to those achieved with a benchtop spectrophotometer. Relative standard deviations (n = 7) for low and high concentrations of nitrite are 3.6% and 4.3% and for ammonium are 5.6% and 2.6%, respectively. Identical results with a relative error of less than 10% are obtained using different smartphones (n = 3), color extracting software (n = 6), and with multiple individual users (n = 5). These results show the robustness and applicability of the proposed method. The on-site application is carried out in an in-campus wastewater treatment plant and at a local river. A total of 40 samples are analyzed and the analytical results are compared with that obtained by a standard method and a spectrophotometer, followed by a paired t-test at a 95% confidence level. This proposed on-site analytical kit has the advantages of simplicity and portability and has the potential to be popular and useful for citizen science-based environmental monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shulu Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Coastal Ecology and Environmental Studies, Dongshan Swire Marine Station, College of the Environment and Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, People's Republic of China
| | - Hangqian Li
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Coastal Ecology and Environmental Studies, Dongshan Swire Marine Station, College of the Environment and Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, People's Republic of China
| | - Tengyue Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Coastal Ecology and Environmental Studies, Dongshan Swire Marine Station, College of the Environment and Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, People's Republic of China
| | - Guangyong Bo
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Coastal Ecology and Environmental Studies, Dongshan Swire Marine Station, College of the Environment and Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, People's Republic of China
| | - Dongxing Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Coastal Ecology and Environmental Studies, Dongshan Swire Marine Station, College of the Environment and Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Coastal Ecology and Environmental Studies, Dongshan Swire Marine Station, College of the Environment and Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, People's Republic of China.
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17
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Citizen Science and the Sustainable Development Goals: Building Social and Technical Capacity through Data Collection in the Upper Blue Nile Basin, Ethiopia. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14063647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Engaging youth and women in data-scarce, least developed countries (LDCs) is gaining attention in the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) arena, as is using citizen science as a multi-faceted mechanism for data collection, engendering personal empowerment and agency. Involving these populations in citizen science is a powerful synergy that simultaneously addresses the Leave-No-One-Behind promise in the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda, yet most citizen science takes place in the Global North, and attention to LDCs is needed. This article highlights a four-year, four-location, hydrology-focused, interdisciplinary citizen science initiative (CSI) in the Upper Blue Nile Basin, Ethiopia. Through a systematic evaluation, we explore scientific applications of the hydrologic data, as well as the social dimensions in the CSI, towards building a social and technical capacity that supports the SDGs at the local and international scale. In the CSI, Ethiopian high school students received training from local university faculty and graduate students, collecting river stage and groundwater level measurements, and farmers conducted soil resistivity measurements using a novel sensor technology developed for the study area. We found the datasets to be ample for use to locally validate regional groundwater models and seasonal forecasts on soil moisture and streamflow. We conducted written interviews with the students, which revealed their ability to perceive benefits of engagement in the CSI, as well as recognize their increased individual technical capacity. An analysis of the hydrological data demonstrates the readiness of the datasets to be used for evaluating water-related interventions that facilitate the SDGs, broadly, by building synergies between individuals and institutions. As such, we map how both the hydrologic data and experiences of the citizen scientists support the SDGs at the Goal and Target-level, while forging new social and technical pathways.
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18
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Flood Risk in Urban Areas: Modelling, Management and Adaptation to Climate Change: A Review. HYDROLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/hydrology9030050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The modelling and management of flood risk in urban areas are increasingly recognized as global challenges. The complexity of these issues is a consequence of the existence of several distinct sources of risk, including not only fluvial, tidal and coastal flooding, but also exposure to urban runoff and local drainage failure, and the various management strategies that can be proposed. The high degree of vulnerability that characterizes such areas is expected to increase in the future due to the effects of climate change, the growth of the population living in cities, and urban densification. An increasing awareness of the socio-economic losses and environmental impact of urban flooding is clearly reflected in the recent expansion of the number of studies related to the modelling and management of urban flooding, sometimes within the framework of adaptation to climate change. The goal of the current paper is to provide a general review of the recent advances in flood-risk modelling and management, while also exploring future perspectives in these fields of research.
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19
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Abstract
Forest research and professional workforces continue to be dominated by men, particularly at senior and management levels. In this review, we identify some of the historical and ongoing barriers to improved gender inclusion and suggest some solutions. We showcase a selection of women in forestry from different disciplines and parts of the globe to highlight a range of research being conducted by women in forests. Boosting gender equity in forest disciplines requires a variety of approaches across local, regional and global scales. It is also important to include intersectional analyses when identifying barriers for women in forestry, but enhanced equity, diversity and inclusion will improve outcomes for forest ecosystems and social values of forests, with potential additional economic benefits.
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20
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Alfonso L, Gharesifard M, Wehn U. Analysing the value of environmental citizen-generated data: Complementarity and cost per observation. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 303:114157. [PMID: 34839172 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.114157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The proliferation of Citizen Science initiatives has increased the expectations of practitioners who need data for design, analysis, management and research in environmental applications. Many Citizen Science experiences have reported tangible societal benefits related to improved governance of natural resources due to the involvement of citizens and communities. However, from the perspective of data generation, most of the literature on Citizen Science tends to regard it as a potentially cost-effective source of data, with major concerns about the quality of data. The Ground Truth 2.0 project brought the opportunity to examine the scope of this potential by analysing the value of citizen-generated data. We propose a methodology to account for the value of citizen observations as a function of their complementarity to existing environmental observations and the evolution of their costs in time. The application of the proposed methodology in the chosen case studies that were all established using a co-design approach shows that the cost of obtaining Citizen Science data is not as low as frequently stated in literature. This is because the costs associated with co-design events for creating a Citizen Science community, as well as the functional and technical design of the tools, are much higher than the costs of rolling out the actual observation campaigns. In none of the considered cases did an increment in the number of preparatory events translate into an immediate increase in the collected observations. Nevertheless, Citizen Science appears to have the greatest value in places where in-situ environmental monitoring is not implemented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Alfonso
- Department of Hydroinformatics and Socio-technical Innovation IHE Delft Institute of Water Education, Westvest 7, 2611AX, Delft, the Netherlands.
| | | | - Uta Wehn
- Department of Hydroinformatics and Socio-technical Innovation IHE Delft Institute of Water Education, Westvest 7, 2611AX, Delft, the Netherlands
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21
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Aoki LR, Brisbin MM, Hounshell AG, Kincaid DW, Larson EI, Sansom BJ, Shogren AJ, Smith RS, Sullivan-Stack J. OUP accepted manuscript. Bioscience 2022; 72:508-520. [PMID: 35677292 PMCID: PMC9169894 DOI: 10.1093/biosci/biac020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Extreme events have increased in frequency globally, with a simultaneous surge in scientific interest about their ecological responses, particularly in sensitive freshwater, coastal, and marine ecosystems. We synthesized observational studies of extreme events in these aquatic ecosystems, finding that many studies do not use consistent definitions of extreme events. Furthermore, many studies do not capture ecological responses across the full spatial scale of the events. In contrast, sampling often extends across longer temporal scales than the event itself, highlighting the usefulness of long-term monitoring. Many ecological studies of extreme events measure biological responses but exclude chemical and physical responses, underscoring the need for integrative and multidisciplinary approaches. To advance extreme event research, we suggest prioritizing pre- and postevent data collection, including leveraging long-term monitoring; making intersite and cross-scale comparisons; adopting novel empirical and statistical approaches; and developing funding streams to support flexible and responsive data collection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alexandria G Hounshell
- Biological Sciences Department, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science, Silver Spring, Maryland, United States
| | - Dustin W Kincaid
- Vermont EPSCoR and Gund Institute for Environment, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, United States
| | - Erin I Larson
- Institute of Culture and Environment, Alaska Pacific University, Anchorage, Alaska, United States
| | - Brandon J Sansom
- Department of Geography, State University of New York University, Buffalo, Buffalo, New York
- US Geological Survey's Columbia Environmental Research Center, Columbia, Missouri, United States
| | - Arial J Shogren
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing Michigan
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa Alabama, United States
| | - Rachel S Smith
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States
| | - Jenna Sullivan-Stack
- Department of Integrative Biology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, United States
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22
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Ecosystem Services Evaluation of Nature-Based Solutions with the Help of Citizen Scientists. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su131910629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Ecosystem services are increasingly being considered in decision-making with respect to mitigating future climate impacts. In this respect, there is a clear need to identify how nature-based solutions (NBS) can benefit specific ecosystem services, in particular within the complex spatial and temporal dynamics that characterize most river catchments. To capture these changes, ecosystem models require spatially explicit data that are often difficult to obtain for model development and validation. Citizen science allows for the participation of trained citizen volunteers in research or regulatory activities, resulting in increased data collection and increased participation of the general public in resource management. Despite the increasing experience in citizen science, these approaches have seldom been used in the modeling of provisioning ecosystem services. In the present study, we examined the temporal and spatial drivers in nutrient delivery in a major Italian river catchment and under different NBS scenarios. Information on climate, land use, soil and river conditions, as well as future climate scenarios, were used to explore future (2050) benefits of NBS on local and catchment scale nutrient loads and nutrient export. We estimate the benefits of a reduction in nitrogen and phosphorus export to the river and the receiving waters (Adriatic Sea) with respect to the costs associated with individual and combined NBS approaches related to river restoration and catchment reforestation.
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23
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New Radiometric Approaches to Compute Underwater Irradiances: Potential Applications for High-Resolution and Citizen Science-Based Water Quality Monitoring Programs. SENSORS 2021; 21:s21165537. [PMID: 34450978 PMCID: PMC8400529 DOI: 10.3390/s21165537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Measuring the diffuse attenuation coefficient (Kd) allows for monitoring the water body’s environmental status. This parameter is of particular interest in water quality monitoring programs because it quantifies the presence of light and the euphotic zone’s depth. Citizen scientists can meaningfully contribute by monitoring water quality, complementing traditional methods by reducing monitoring costs and significantly improving data coverage, empowering and supporting decision-making. However, the quality of the acquisition of in situ underwater irradiance measurements has some limitations, especially in areas where stratification phenomena occur in the first meters of depth. This vertical layering introduces a gradient of properties in the vertical direction, affecting the associated Kd. To detect and characterize these variations of Kd in the water column, it needs a system of optical sensors, ideally placed in a range of a few cm, improving the low vertical accuracy. Despite that, the problem of self-shading on the instrumentation becomes critical. Here, we introduce a new concept that aims to improve the vertical accuracy of the irradiance measurements: the underwater annular irradiance (Ea). This new concept consists of measuring the irradiance in an annular-shaped distribution. We first compute the optimal annular angle that avoids self-shading and maximizes the light captured by the sensors. Second, we use different scenarios of water types, solar zenith angle, and cloud coverage to assess the robustness of the corresponding diffuse attenuation coefficient, Ka. Finally, we derive empirical functions for computing Kd from Ka. This new concept opens the possibility to a new generation of optical sensors in an annular-shaped distribution which is expected to (a) increase the vertical resolution of the irradiance measurements and (b) be easy to deploy and maintain and thus to be more suitable for citizen scientists.
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24
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Gassett PR, O'Brien-Clayton K, Bastidas C, Rheuban JE, Hunt CW, Turner E, Liebman M, Silva E, Pimenta AR, Grear J, Motyka J, McCorkle D, Stancioff E, Brady DC, Strong AL. Community Science for Coastal Acidification Monitoring and Research. COASTAL MANAGEMENT : AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MARINE ENVIRONMENT, RESOURCES, LAW, AND SOCIETY 2021; 49:510-531. [PMID: 36204115 PMCID: PMC9534045 DOI: 10.1080/08920753.2021.1947131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Ocean and coastal acidification (OCA) present a unique set of sustainability challenges at the human-ecological interface. Extensive biogeochemical monitoring that can assess local acidification conditions, distinguish multiple drivers of changing carbonate chemistry, and ultimately inform local and regional response strategies is necessary for successful adaptation to OCA. However, the sampling frequency and cost-prohibitive scientific equipment needed to monitor OCA are barriers to implementing the widespread monitoring of dynamic coastal conditions. Here, we demonstrate through a case study that existing community-based water monitoring initiatives can help address these challenges and contribute to OCA science. We document how iterative, sequential outreach, workshop-based training, and coordinated monitoring activities through the Northeast Coastal Acidification Network (a) assessed the capacity of northeastern United States community science programs and (b) engaged community science programs productively with OCA monitoring efforts. Our results (along with the companion manuscript) indicate that community science programs are capable of collecting robust scientific information pertinent to OCA and are positioned to monitor in locations that would critically expand the coverage of current OCA research. Furthermore, engaging community stakeholders in OCA science and outreach enabled a platform for dialogue about OCA among other interrelated environmental concerns and fostered a series of co-benefits relating to public participation in resource and risk management. Activities in support of community science monitoring have an impact not only by increasing local understanding of OCA but also by promoting public education and community participation in potential adaptation measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parker Randall Gassett
- Department of Marine Science, University of Maine, Orono, Maine, USA
- Maine Sea Grant, Orono, Maine, USA
| | - Katie O'Brien-Clayton
- Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, Hartford, Connecticut, USA
| | - Carolina Bastidas
- MIT Sea Grant Program, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jennie E Rheuban
- Department of Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, USA
- Woods Hole Sea Grant, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Christopher W Hunt
- Ocean Process Analysis Laboratory, University of New Hampshire, Durham, New Hampshire, USA
| | | | | | - Emily Silva
- Northeastern Regional Association of Coastal Ocean Observing Systems, Portsmouth, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Adam R Pimenta
- Atlantic Coastal Environmental Sciences Division, Environmental Protection Agency, Narragansett, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Jason Grear
- Atlantic Coastal Environmental Sciences Division, Environmental Protection Agency, Narragansett, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Jackie Motyka
- Northeastern Regional Association of Coastal Ocean Observing Systems, Portsmouth, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Daniel McCorkle
- Department of Geology and Geophysics, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Esperanza Stancioff
- University of Maine Cooperative Extension and Maine Sea Grant, University of Maine, Orono, Maine, USA
| | - Damian C Brady
- School of Marine Science, University of Maine, Orono, Maine, USA
| | - Aaron L Strong
- Environmental Studies Program, Hamilton College, Clinton, New York, USA
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25
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Towards a Transdisciplinary Theoretical Framework of Citizen Science: Results from a Meta-Review Analysis. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su13147904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This work intends to lay the foundations for a theoretical framework of citizen science combining social and organizational implications with the support of information technologies. The proposed theoretical framework moves towards a shared and common research process between experts and citizens to deal with environmental and social challenges. The role and capacity of online communities is explored and their engagement capacity by means of web-based digital platforms supporting crowdsourcing activities. In this contribution, authors highlight the most common practices, methods and issues of citizen science approaches adopted from multidisciplinary application fields to obtain insights for designing a new participative approach for organizational studies. To reach this goal, authors illustrate the results of a systematic meta-review analysis, consisting of an accurate selection and revision of journal review articles in order to highlight concepts, methods, research design approaches and tools adopted in citizen science approaches.
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26
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Prandi C, Nisi V, Ribeiro M, Nunes N. Sensing and making sense of tourism flows and urban data to foster sustainability awareness: a real-world experience. JOURNAL OF BIG DATA 2021; 8:51. [PMID: 33782645 PMCID: PMC7989699 DOI: 10.1186/s40537-021-00442-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Tourism is one of the world's largest industries fundamentally arising from mobility as a form of capital. In destination islands that have a delicate ecosystem to maintain, this source of income can become problematic in terms of sustainability. A difficulty in making people aware of this issue is also represented by the fact that such sustainability-related issues (and their causes) are often not "visible" to citizens. To foster awareness about the relationship between sustainability and tourism in well-known destinations, we design a platform that engages users at two levels of participation: i. at the IoT and sensors level, in order to let them becoming providers of big data, deploying and enlarging the pervasive infrastructure; ii. at the (big) data visualization level, with the aim of engaging them in making sense of large volumes of data related to sustainability. This paper presents the design and implementation of a real-world experience where a low-cost collaborative platform made it possible to sense and visualize tourist flows and urban data into a rich interactive map-based visualization, open to the local communities. We deployed our case study in the Madeira archipelago, engaging locals and visitors of the island in two exploratory studies focused on measuring the impact of providing users with meaningful representations of tourism flows and related unperceivable aspects that affect the environmental sustainability. Analysing the findings of the two studies, we discuss the potentiality of using such a system to make sense of big data, fostering awareness about sustainability issues, and we point to future open challenges about citizens' participation in sensing and making sense of big data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catia Prandi
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Bologna, Italy
- ITI/LARSyS,
Funchal, Portugal
| | - Valentina Nisi
- Instituto Superior Técnico, U. of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- ITI/LARSyS,
Funchal, Portugal
| | - Miguel Ribeiro
- Instituto Superior Técnico, U. of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- ITI/LARSyS,
Funchal, Portugal
| | - Nuno Nunes
- Instituto Superior Técnico, U. of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- ITI/LARSyS,
Funchal, Portugal
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27
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Alteration of the Ecohydrological Status of the Intermittent Flow Rivers and Ephemeral Streams due to the Climate Change Impact (Case Study: Tsiknias River). HYDROLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/hydrology8010043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Climate change projections predict the increase of no-rain periods and storm intensity resulting in high hydrologic alteration of the Mediterranean rivers. Intermittent flow Rivers and Ephemeral Streams (IRES) are particularly vulnerable to spatiotemporal variation of climate variables, land use changes and other anthropogenic factors. In this work, the impact of climate change on the aquatic state of IRES is assessed by the combination of the hydrological model Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) and the Temporary Rivers Ecological and Hydrological Status (TREHS) tool under two different Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5) using CORDEX model simulations. A significant decrease of 20–40% of the annual flow of the examined river (Tsiknias River, Greece) is predicted during the next 100 years with an increase in the frequency of extreme flood events as captured with almost all Regional Climate Models (RCMs) simulations. The occurrence patterns of hyporheic and edaphic aquatic states show a temporal extension of these states through the whole year due to the elongation of the dry period. A shift to the Intermittent-Pools regime type shows dominance according to numerous climate change scenarios, harming, as a consequence, both the ecological system and the social-economic one.
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28
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Polycentric Solutions for Groundwater Governance in Sub-Saharan Africa: Encouraging Institutional Artisanship in an Extended Ladder of Participation. WATER 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/w13050630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The growth of groundwater irrigation poses opportunities and challenges, particularly in Africa where substantial potential exists for increased groundwater irrigation but has been constrained by limited access to energy, technology for pumps and drilling, markets, and other factors. Conventional groundwater governance concepts for state-led regulation or co-management are problematic for conditions where state capacity or political support for regulation to reconcile conflicting interests is limited. Experience in Africa and elsewhere does offer examples that may help recognize feasible patterns for collective action that can influence the equity, efficiency, and sustainability of groundwater development. An extended ladder of participation helps look beyond state-led water governance and co-management to a more diverse range of opportunities for supporting local autonomy and initiative to expand opportunities and solve problems in groundwater development. Collective action in groundwater governance can include well spacing; sharing of wells, pumps, and pipes; protecting domestic water sources; crop coordination; groundwater recharge; water imports; and aquifer management. Even where non-state organizations and collective action play primary roles in water governance, they may still be empowered by, receive advice from, or share information with government agencies and other actors. Polycentric groundwater governance can be supported by improving information, facilitating cooperation, endorsing standards, providing a legal framework for resolving conflicts and constituting governance agreements, and through polycentric social learning. Polycentric institutional artisanship by water users and their organizations can help find feasible solutions for improving groundwater governance.
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Walker DW, Smigaj M, Tani M. The benefits and negative impacts of citizen science applications to water as experienced by participants and communities. WIRES WATER 2021. [PMID: 0 DOI: 10.1002/wat2.1488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- David W. Walker
- JSPS International Research Fellow, Faculty of Design Kyushu University Fukuoka Japan
| | - Magdalena Smigaj
- JSPS International Research Fellow, Faculty of Agriculture Kyushu University Fukuoka Japan
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Gao M, Li J, Zhang F, Wang S, Xie Y, Yin Z, Zhang B. Measurement of Water Leaving Reflectance Using a Digital Camera Based on Multiple Reflectance Reference Cards. SENSORS 2020; 20:s20226580. [PMID: 33217939 PMCID: PMC7698626 DOI: 10.3390/s20226580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
With the development of citizen science, digital cameras and smartphones are increasingly utilized in water quality monitoring. The smartphone application HydroColor quantitatively retrieves water quality parameters from digital images. HydroColor assumes a linear relationship between the digital pixel number (DN) and incident radiance and applies a grey reference card to derive water leaving reflectance. However, image DNs change with incident light brightness non-linearly, according to a power function. We developed an improved method for observing and calculating water leaving reflectance from digital images based on multiple reflectance reference cards. The method was applied to acquire water, sky, and reflectance reference card images using a Cannon 50D digital camera at 31 sampling stations; the results were validated using synchronously measured water leaving reflectance using a field spectrometer. The R2 for the red, green, and blue color bands were 0.94, 0.95, 0.94, and the mean relative errors were 27.6%, 29.8%, 31.8%, respectively. The validation results confirm that this method can derive accurate water leaving reflectance, especially when compared with the results derived by HydroColor, which systematically overestimates water leaving reflectance. Our results provide a more accurate theoretical foundation for quantitative water quality monitoring using digital and smartphone cameras.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Gao
- Key Laboratory of Digital Earth Science, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100094, China; (M.G.); (F.Z.); (S.W.); (Y.X.); (Z.Y.); (B.Z.)
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Junsheng Li
- Key Laboratory of Digital Earth Science, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100094, China; (M.G.); (F.Z.); (S.W.); (Y.X.); (Z.Y.); (B.Z.)
- School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- Correspondence:
| | - Fangfang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Digital Earth Science, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100094, China; (M.G.); (F.Z.); (S.W.); (Y.X.); (Z.Y.); (B.Z.)
| | - Shenglei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Digital Earth Science, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100094, China; (M.G.); (F.Z.); (S.W.); (Y.X.); (Z.Y.); (B.Z.)
| | - Ya Xie
- Key Laboratory of Digital Earth Science, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100094, China; (M.G.); (F.Z.); (S.W.); (Y.X.); (Z.Y.); (B.Z.)
- School of Earth Sciences and Resources, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China
| | - Ziyao Yin
- Key Laboratory of Digital Earth Science, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100094, China; (M.G.); (F.Z.); (S.W.); (Y.X.); (Z.Y.); (B.Z.)
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Bing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Digital Earth Science, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100094, China; (M.G.); (F.Z.); (S.W.); (Y.X.); (Z.Y.); (B.Z.)
- College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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Wang S, Matt M, Murphy BL, Perkins M, Matthews DA, Moran SD, Zeng T. Organic Micropollutants in New York Lakes: A Statewide Citizen Science Occurrence Study. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:13759-13770. [PMID: 33064942 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c04775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The widespread occurrence of organic micropollutants (OMPs) is a challenge for aquatic ecosystem management, and closing the gaps in risk assessment of OMPs requires a data-driven approach. One promising tool for increasing the spatiotemporal coverage of OMP data sets is through the active involvement of citizen volunteers to expand the scale of OMP monitoring. Working collaboratively with volunteers from the Citizens Statewide Lake Assessment Program (CSLAP), we conducted the first statewide study on OMP occurrence in surface waters of New York lakes. Samples collected by CSLAP volunteers were analyzed for OMPs by a suspect screening method based on mixed-mode solid-phase extraction and liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry. Sixty-five OMPs were confirmed and quantified in samples from 111 lakes across New York. Hierarchical clustering of OMP occurrence data revealed the relevance of 11 most frequently detected OMPs for classifying the contamination status of lakes. Partial least squares regression and multiple linear regression analyses prioritized three water quality parameters linked to agricultural and developed land uses (i.e., total dissolved nitrogen, specific conductance, and a wastewater-derived fluorescent organic matter component) as the best combination of predictors that partly explained the interlake variability in OMP occurrence. Lastly, the exposure-activity ratio approach identified the potential for biological effects associated with detected OMPs that warrant further biomonitoring studies. Overall, this work demonstrated the feasibility of incorporating citizen science approaches into the regional impact assessment of OMPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiru Wang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Syracuse University, 151 Link Hall, Syracuse, New York 13244, United States
| | - Monica Matt
- Upstate Freshwater Institute, 224 Midler Park Drive, Syracuse, New York 13206, United States
| | - Bethany L Murphy
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Syracuse University, 151 Link Hall, Syracuse, New York 13244, United States
| | - MaryGail Perkins
- Upstate Freshwater Institute, 224 Midler Park Drive, Syracuse, New York 13206, United States
| | - David A Matthews
- Upstate Freshwater Institute, 224 Midler Park Drive, Syracuse, New York 13206, United States
| | - Sharon D Moran
- Department of Environmental Studies, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, 1 Forestry Drive, Syracuse, New York 13210, United States
| | - Teng Zeng
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Syracuse University, 151 Link Hall, Syracuse, New York 13244, United States
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Citizen science: An alternative way for water monitoring in Hong Kong. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0238349. [PMID: 32898181 PMCID: PMC7478504 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0238349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Nowadays, citizen science has become increasingly popular, especially in Western countries. In Hong Kong, citizen science projects are mostly used for public education, while utilizing citizen scientists in published scientific research is very rare. On the other hand, with the increasing threats to global water security, Hong Kong requires new adaptation and strategy in facing the impairment of local freshwater systems. However, unfortunately, the number of full-scale urban river research appears to be declining. In this regard, citizen science can offer an alternative option as one of the new integrated water management strategies in Hong Kong. In this study, the water quality of seven rivers and streams in Hong Kong was studied monthly for two years by a group of citizen scientists. The main goal is to examine the reliability of data collected by citizen scientists by comparing it with the official data from the Environmental Protection Department of Hong Kong (EPD). Results show that the water temperature and conductivity data acquired by the citizen scientists were highly comparable to the official data. Also, moderate to strong correlations in water pH, turbidity, and dissolved oxygen levels were found between citizen scientists and official data. Since the citizen science data remained as high as 70% of relevance to the official data, we believe that this may serve as a supplement to the lacking official or professional water quality monitoring data in Hong Kong. Even though the use of volunteer data in water quality monitoring unavoidably exists with errors and bias, this study demonstrates a successful outcome of utilizing citizen science programme in urban river monitoring in Hong Kong.
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Mao F, Khamis K, Clark J, Krause S, Buytaert W, Ochoa-Tocachi BF, Hannah DM. Moving beyond the Technology: A Socio-technical Roadmap for Low-Cost Water Sensor Network Applications. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:9145-9158. [PMID: 32628837 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.9b07125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
In this paper, we critically review the current state-of-the-art for sensor network applications and approaches that have developed in response to the recent rise of low-cost technologies. We specifically focus on water-related low-cost sensor networks, and conceptualize them as socio-technical systems that can address resource management challenges and opportunities at three scales of resolution: (1) technologies, (2) users and scenarios, and (3) society and communities. Building this argument, first we identify a general structure for building low-cost sensor networks by assembling technical components across configuration levels. Second, we identify four application categories, namely operational monitoring, scientific research, system optimization, and community development, each of which has different technical and nontechnical configurations that determine how, where, by whom, and for what purpose low-cost sensor networks are used. Third, we discuss the governance factors (e.g., stakeholders and users, networks sustainability and maintenance, application scenarios, and integrated design) and emerging technical opportunities that we argue need to be considered to maximize the added value and long-term societal impact of the next generation of sensor network applications. We conclude that consideration of the full range of socio-technical issues is essential to realize the full potential of sensor network technologies for society and the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Mao
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, U.K
| | - Kieran Khamis
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, U.K
| | - Julian Clark
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, U.K
| | - Stefan Krause
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, U.K
| | - Wouter Buytaert
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, U.K
- Grantham Institute - Climate Change and the Environment, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, U.K
| | - Boris F Ochoa-Tocachi
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, U.K
- Grantham Institute - Climate Change and the Environment, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, U.K
- Regional Initiative for Hydrological Monitoring of Andean Ecosystems, Lima, Peru
| | - David M Hannah
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, U.K
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