Sometimes, connecting with nature is about connecting with the issues our environment is facing. Our Litter Intelligence citizen scientists visit their local beach every three months to collect data on the litter that has accumulated there.
These data contribute to a national litter database that enables Aotearoa’s problem-solvers to understand the issues and design the best solutions.
We love this because citizen scientists are not only connecting with their local beach, but they’re also working to protect it.
Type them into the search bar one at a time on the Litter Intelligence website to find out.
If none of your local beaches is currently monitored, how about starting a survey area yourself? You’ll need at least two other people and be able to commit to a fun training day and to monitor your site every three months. Anyone can get involved — existing community groups, school groups, or you and your kids or friends! Get more info here.
For us, spending time at the beach and seeing what’s found is an amazing way to connect to them. It reinforces our kaitiakitanga (guardianship) over our coasts and enables us to provide invaluable information to protect them for future generations and the wildlife that inhabits them.
