CROPS (Curating, Replicating, Orchestrating, and Propogating Citizen Science across Europe)

In recent years, Citizen Science has gained momentum with advancements in digital and mobile tech. This collaborative approach, where the public helps scientists in collecting and analysing data, invites everyone to contribute to research. Global expansion of Citizen Science could harness vast data resources, driving impactful research. Yet, many Citizen Science initiatives start at a small-scale, facing barriers when attempting to upscale to a wider level. CROPS is an EC-funded Horizon Europe project (Grant Agreement N. 101131696) that steps in to address this challenge and enable Citizen Science initiatives to reach their full potential.

Description

To reach its goal, CROPS will identify the most suitable Citizen Science initiatives to be upscaled to the Europe-wide level. While doing so, the project will also develop protocols, resources, and examples of best upscaling practices.

CROPS will align its efforts with the Horizon Europe EU Missions, targeting Citizen Science projects aimed at addressing critical societal challenges such as Climate Change Adaptation; Cancer; Healthy Oceans and Seas; Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities; and Soil Health and Food.

CROPS implements an integrated approach involving four main activities:

  • Appraisal of existing citizen practices, their activities and their suitability for upscaling;
  • Creation of protocols and guidance for the upscaling of Citizen Science, replicating and building on best practice that exists;
  • Identification and guidance on practical aspects such as open data sharing, sustainability, responsible research and innvation (RRI), and accessing funding opportunities;
  • Development of transnational Citizen Science communities.

As CROPS continues to evolve and grow, it promises to bring Citizen Science and EU research to a new level. Keep an eye on this pioneering initiative by visiting its website or following CROPS on social media platforms (X, IG, Facebook, and LinkedIn).

Basic information

Coordinator

Partners

Programme

Horizon Europe (programme-horizon-europe)

Project Acronym

Target groups

college students, education authorities, general public, industry, policy makers, primary school students, researchers, secondary school students, teachers, trainee teachers, under school-age kids, university students, university lecturers, vocational school students, youth clubs

Topic

Information technology, Education

Start year

2024

End year

2026

Contact person

Mariana Denis Malta (Project Manager), mariana.malta@inova.business

James Sprinks (Principal Scientific Investigator), jsprinks@earthwatch.org.uk