"Globally, citizen science is growing in importance. Citizen science offers tremendous potential for collecting a wide range of useful data to help us better understand such things as the effects of climate change on flora and fauna; changes to ecosystem health, and population trends and the distribution of flora and fauna species.
"Social outcomes are diverse and include enhancing participants' scientific and ecological literacy."
At Cafe Scientifique, which takes place next Monday, Ms Peters will provide an overview of citizen science in New Zealand, from large-scale scientist-led initiatives to the 'grassroots' citizen science carried out by community groups (within the context of their environmental restoration projects).
"The current research investigates how New Zealand community groups use science-based toolkits to carry out environmental monitoring. This opens a whole range of questions around how communities can participate more effectively in wider decision-making about their local and regional landscapes."
Cafe Scientifique is a Tauranga-based seminar series where anyone can explore the latest scientific thinking and research from national and international speakers in a relaxed setting.
What: Cafe Scientifique - Volunteering for the environment: Growing citizen science in New Zealand. Monica Peters, University of Waikato PhD student.
When: 6.30pm for 7pm start, Monday 18 April 2016
Where: Tauranga Yacht and Power Boat Club
For more information visit www.waikato.ac.nz/go/cafescientifique.