EPA to hold free ‘citizen science’ conferences Sept. 11-12
Puerto Rico’s drinking water systems will be one of the topics of discussion during the workshops.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will be holding day-long workshops on Sept. 11-12 at the University of Puerto’s Rio Piedras campus to share information about ways in which people can get involved in collecting environmental data in their communities.
The workshops will bring together EPA experts and Caribbean Science Consortium members to help educate the public about “citizen science.” Citizen science is a form of environmental monitoring that enlists the public in collecting a wide range of environmental data to expand scientific knowledge and literacy.
“Citizen science is an important, growing field that can provide invaluable information and data on pollution problems in local communities,” said Judith A. Enck, EPA regional administrator.
“Residents are the eyes and ears of their communities. By supporting citizen scientists, the EPA is expanding its own scientific base and building partnerships with communities that are working to reduce air and water pollution,” she said.
The first day of the workshops will focus on current science activities in the Caribbean with special attention on the water pollution and public health problems in the Martín Peña Channel, and the drinking water of non-Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority community drinking water systems. Day two will focus on citizen science and how communities can seek solutions to environmental and public health issues.
Topics covered during the two days include:
- Community group success stories
- How to start a citizen science program
- Disadvantaged urban communities
- Overview of the Caribbean Science Consortium and Non-PRASA Workgroup
- Non-PRASA Drinking Water Systems
- Contaminants of emerging concern
The workshops will provide an opportunity for interaction and information sharing among participants and a highly diverse group of speakers. Space is limited and participants must register in advance at: http://www.epa.gov/region2/citizenscience/.
