CS-MACH1 will create a network for citizen science initiatives, cost-efficient technology providers, data management experts, and training material to facilitate FAIR data flows, empowering citizens to monitor and contribute to marine science through data platforms.
CS-MACH1 will develop a Marine Citizen Science Data Network (MCSDN) and its web-based hub to empower MCS Initiative in facilitating data uptake and integration by users. This will be implemented
fostering continuous interaction among CS communities, technology providers, data management experts and researchers;
providing cost-efficient technologies, best practices and standards for data management, training and support to enable the production of FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) data flows.

CMCC role
Coordinator

Activities
Fondazione CMCC is involved in all Work Packages and, in several cases, holds significant responsibilities. It leads WP1 “Project Coordination and Management” and WP5 “Demonstrating the Value Chain of MCS Data Network”, which aims to showcase the full potential of Citizen Science (CS) observation data and demonstrate the value chain across multiple local CSIs within the network. These CSIs will collaborate to address global environmental challenges using affordable sensor technologies. Additionally, Fondazione CMCC is responsible for several tasks within the other Work Packages of the project.

Expected results
CS-MACH1 will deliver significant societal and scientific benefits during its implementation and beyond.
Its outputs and results will directly contribute to the expected outcomes and impacts of the work programme, helping to overcome barriers and maximise the value of Marine Citizen Science data. In particular:
– Unlock the full potential of Marine Citizen Science by transforming collected data into accessible, practical knowledge for wider societal and scientific impact
– Foster the active participation of different community groups in creating credible marine knowledge,  advancing the Digital Ocean and Water Knowledge System
– Supporting the scaling up of MCS activities in Europe

Partners
SMHI (Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute)
ETT (ETT SPA)
MARIS (Mariene Informatie Service MARIS BV)
OUTBE (OUTBE SRL Società Benefit)
SSBE (Seascape Belgium)
CSIC (Spanish National Research Council)
Ifremer (Institut Francais De Recherche Pour L’Exploitation de la Mer)
VLIZ (Flanders Marine Institute)
ECSA (European Citizen Science Association)
AUA (American University of Armenia)
NOC-BODC (National Oceanography Centre)
UM (University of Malta)
IEEE
IEEE (France Section)
OceanOPS (United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization – Affiliated Partner)