Citizen science (2025 – …)

In 2015, the European Citizen Science Association (ECSA) adopted 10 principles of citizen science. These principles were also endorsed by the association “Science Europe,” thereby strengthening the credibility of these guidelines and affirming citizen science as a legitimate method of scientific research.

1. Citizen science projects actively involve community members in scientific endeavors, generating new knowledge. Participants may take on various roles, which should be clearly defined and transparent.
2. Citizen science projects deliver tangible scientific outcomes.
3. Professional scientists and other participants in citizen science projects benefit in various ways, ranging from scientific publications, knowledge exchange, personal fulfillment, social advantages, to the influence and satisfaction of seeing research results shape solutions in local, national, or international contexts.
4. Participants in citizen science projects can contribute to different stages of the scientific process, including research design, development of scientific methods, data generation, and the publication and dissemination of results
5. All participants are kept informed about the progress of the research, including phases in which they may not be directly involved, such as the research’s impact on social development or the implementation of findings in different contexts.
6. Citizen science is just as valuable as any traditional research method, but it has its own limitations and biases that must be acknowledged and addressed. Unlike conventional research models, citizen science promotes community involvement.
7. Citizen science adheres to the principles of open science. Data and metadata from projects are publicly available, and results are published in open-access formats, with standard exceptions for the sharing of research findings.
8. All participants should receive recognition in the research outcomes of citizen science projects.
9. Evaluation of citizen science programs should take into account research results, data quality, participant experiences, and broader societal or political impacts.

• Citizen science project leaders must consider legal and ethical aspects in their research activities, including copyright, intellectual property, data-sharing agreements, confidentiality, citation, and environmental impact.

By observing and following research methodologies on flora and fauna used in other countries, we at the Center for Environment concluded that relying solely on the existing capacities of the scientific and research community for data collection is not sufficient. In 2025, we decided to launch a campaign to promote citizen science.

Collecting data on species is extremely important for the scientific community, as it allows for tracking trends and the status of certain species populations. Unfortunately, the number of researchers in Bosnia and Herzegovina is not large, so the amount of data currently available is very limited. By involving the wider public in data collection, we not only contribute to a better understanding of species, but also raise public awareness about the need to protect nature. On the other hand, citizens can make their own contribution by promoting science and gaining new knowledge about the nature that surrounds us.

How can citizens contribute to the scientific effort?
By installing the Biologer app, turning on their location, and photographing plants and animals—then uploading the photo. In case you’re not overly tech-savy, have no fear! You can also send the photo with coordinates via email to:
branislava.dukic@czzs.org and our colleague will do the rest!

What is Biologer?
Biologer is an open-source, free app that helps collect data on species and habitats. Through our citizen science campaign, we established a partnership with colleagues who coordinate Biologer. The app is very easy to use and suitable for all age groups. It can be installed on both phones and desktop computers.

To learn how to use Biologer, click HERE for instructions!