LIFE IP AZORES NATURA promotes an online session on citizen science and invasive species

Feb. 10, 2026

Last October, an online training session entitled ‘Citizen science and invasive species management: how we can all be part of the solution’ was held, led by Dr Hélia Marchante, a specialist in invasive alien species.

Around 40 participants attended the event, including representatives from public and private entities and civil society, who reflected on the problem of invasive species — currently recognised as the fifth leading cause of biodiversity loss globally.

During the session, key topics were addressed, such as:

• the importance of proper management of these species,
• the role of early detection in stopping new invasions,
• and the use of citizen science platforms such as BioDiversity4All/iNaturalist, which allow any citizen to contribute relevant data for nature conservation.

In the final discussion, the need for clear and comprehensive communication with all entities involved was highlighted, reinforcing that the fight against invasive species must be a shared responsibility.

This initiative is part of Action C2.2 – External Capacity Building of the LIFE IP AZORES NATURA project, coordinated by the Regional Secretariat for the Environment and Climate Action, which seeks to involve and empower the community to protect the Region’s biodiversity and ecosystems.

Find out more about this and other actions at: www.lifeazoresnatura.eu.