Citizen Scientists in Ghent Test New App to Protect Urban Streams
Ghent, Belgium – July 2025
As part of the Horizon Europe project OneAquaHealth, researchers from Ghent University invited local citizens to test a new Citizen Science app designed to monitor and protect urban aquatic ecosystems. The workshop, held on 8 July at Ghent brought together ten participants of different ages and backgrounds, under the guidance of Dr. Marie Anne Eurie Forio and Dr. Long Ho.
Testing the App: Opportunities and Challenges
The Citizen Science app enables citizens to log observations about rivers and canals in their neighborhoods, such as water levels, pollution, and invasive species. While digitally literate participants navigated the installation and login smoothly, older participants with limited digital skills found the process challenging. Feedback highlighted several areas for improvement includes app installation, instructions, observation tools, and user experience. Despite these challenges, many participants praised the initiative, noting that the app helps bridge the gap between science and society and gives citizens a role in protecting local waterways.
Citizen Engagement and Next Steps
Importantly, eight of the ten participants expressed interest in continuing as active “Citizen Scientists” in future phases of the project. Their commitment reflects growing public enthusiasm for community-driven environmental monitoring. The workshop concluded with constructive discussions on how to refine the app, ensuring it becomes more accessible, reliable, and engaging. Suggestions included highlighting the societal benefits of citizen data collection.
Towards Healthier Cities and Ecosystems
OneAquaHealth aims to protect urban aquatic ecosystems while promoting human well-being under the “One Health” approach, which recognizes the interdependence of people, animals, and the environment. By incorporating citizen feedback, the project hopes to develop digital tools that are not only scientifically robust but also practical and empowering for everyday users. As one participant noted: “It is really a good app for us citizens to provide the information we observe about the aquatic environment for a better balance between nature and humans.”
Author(s): Marie Anne, University of Ghent