Lichens CitiSci: A community science project engaging volunteers in air quality
Lichens CitiSci, USFS National Air Program, and University of Edinburgh (1)
Lichens CitiSci: a community science project engaging volunteers in air quality biomonitoring Equitable access to air quality knowledge and relevant engagement of non-experts in biomonitoring efforts is vital to ensure the longevity of biomonitoring and the equitability of air quality protection. Lichens CitiSci, a community science project engaging non-experts in lichen biomonitoring work, supports resource-limited air monitoring efforts while making real world connections with people in local communities. Understanding pollutants in the air, why they matter, and why they need to be monitored can be challenging concepts. Not to mention the interconnected realities between some air pollutants and climate change. Polluted air impacts environmental and human health, and our survival relies on healthy and resilient ecosystem services. The reality is that people in underserved communities are more likely to be disproportionately exposed to higher levels of air pollution. Thus, while it can be difficult to make an argument with society that biodiversity and environmental health matters, it can be more tangible to argue that air quality matters because everyone breathes air and is impacted by air pollution.
Keywords: lichens, air quality, community science, citizen science, bio monitoring, air pollution
