Climate change is enhancing the effects of anthropogenic pollution, leading to severe impacts on inland water systems and posing risks to human health. Therefore, adaptation and mitigation actions for these major challenges related to water quality are crucial but must start involving local populations in the decision-making processes. Citizen Science approaches can be a powerful tool to engage citizens and scientists for a same purpose through a responsible and conscious action, taking advantage of recent technology.
The CITAQUA project is a Citizen Science approach for Estarreja population through the monitoring of the downstream section of Antuã River and wells/boreholes from the surrounding areas, concerning nitrates and faecal contamination. Fortnightly, citizens are invited to sample and measure pH, conductivity, temperature, TSS (total suspended solids) and nitrate and nitrite levels. The resulting data report through web is promoted. Periodically, microbiological analyses are also carried out in a certified laboratory.
CITAQUA has the major aim of increasing awareness about water quality and impacts from climate change and anthropogenic activities by connecting academic scientists with local authorities and citizens (with a special focus on Youth).

CESAM members on this project

Daniela Figueiredo
Coordinator