What is community science?

Community science, also known as citizen science, is a collaborative process where members of the public participate in scientific research and data collection, often in partnership with professional scientists. This approach empowers communities to contribute to scientific studies that impact their local environment, public health, or other shared interests. Community science projects can range from monitoring local wildlife and air quality to gathering health data, fostering a sense of ownership and engagement with scientific outcomes. It is a valuable way to democratize science and help address real-world issues with direct community involvement.