Why did you organise the Citizen Science Fair?

Carolina: Within the ECS project, we organise so-called cluster events, which bring together different initiatives around a shared theme. Our project officer at the European Commission encouraged us to do one in person, to really show the impact of citizen science.

So we selected projects with meaningful impact, and I thought: wouldn’t it be wonderful if Commission members could see that impact happening right before their eyes, not just through presentations, but through experience? Personally, I’ve organised many public events throughout my research career, and they’re always rewarding. Bringing together professionals and passers-by who discover something new; that mix is incredibly powerful. I reached out to Annelies from Scivil, who is also an ECS ambassador for Belgium, and that’s how the idea of co-organising the fair was born.

Steve: The cluster event on the following day focused more on professionals such as researchers, policymakers and project coordinators. The fair, on the other hand, opened up the conversation to the wider public. Citizen science is about bringing everyone together, and we couldn’t really do that within the more formal setting of the cluster event. So the two complemented each other perfectly.

Were there any remarkable themes or approaches?

Steve: What struck me most wasn’t a single project but the diversity overall. Every two years, Scivil publishes its ‘Citizen Science Scan’ of Belgium, showing the different types of active citizen science projects and their characteristics. Lots of projects are about biodiversity, and people also often associate citizen science with things like bird counts or nature observations. But the fair showed just how broad the field really is.

For instance, there were projects on social issues, like City Confessions, which empowers bystanders to address street harassment, and Moment, focused on perceived safety in Brussels. Others explored artificial intelligence, such as our own Amai! Project, which involves citizens in designing AI solutions for societal challenges. Seeing this variety side by side really displayed how far citizen science has come.

What were the reactions of the attendees?

Carolina: Most visitors were very enthusiastic. Some already knew about citizen science; others stumbled upon the event by chance. The diversity of the audience - researchers, families, even a few children - created such a good atmosphere.

One moment that stayed with me was a young boy fascinated by insects who didn’t quite understand what citizen science was. Through a small LEGO activity, he suddenly realised how his curiosity could turn into real contribution. That spark of discovery, that’s exactly why we do this.

Steve: I felt the same. It was quite intense to organise, but deeply satisfying. A lot of exhibitors I spoke, hoped that this fair would become an annual event. Both a visitor and an exhibitor told me, separately, that this interactive setup of showing results through activities instead of posters or slides made conversations so much easier. It encouraged curiosity, dialogue, and connection. That’s really the essence of citizen science.

A delegation of the European Commission also attended the fair. What does their recognition mean for the future of citizen science in Europe?

Carolina: Honestly? It’s very important. In the end, we want to see more support for citizen science projects that involve people in meaningful, long-term ways. Having representatives of the European Commission there, appreciating the work we put into the fair, was very rewarding. After months of preparation, to see that recognition and hear it reflected during the cluster event felt like a real success.

Steve: I agree. You can give endless presentations or write detailed reports, but seeing projects in action speaks louder than words. The fair gave policymakers a clear sense of what citizen science looks like; how people engage, how it benefits society. That kind of visibility helps make the case for citizen science across Europe.

What lessons are you taking from this edition for future events?

Carolina: This event was for the general public, so the focus, aim and design have to fit with the public’s interests. So I’d say, understand your local reality and tailor the event to challenges that are real and meaningful. And of course, collaboration is key. This fair was a big team effort, and I’d happily work with everyone involved again.

Steve: I’d add: start early, and not just with the logistics. Start building relationships with the communities you want to reach. Citizen science thrives on connection, and you can’t create that overnight. Embedding yourself in the community, meeting people, and getting known for what you do, that’s just as important as ordering tents and setting up electricity. It takes time, but it’s worth it.

What are your dreams for the future of citizen science?

Carolina: My dream is that research is never done without a participatory component. Citizen science reconnects research with the people it serves. Participants bring local knowledge, context, and perspectives scientists might otherwise overlook. And if we truly want to achieve global goals like the Green Deal, we need to translate them into local action - something everyone can contribute to.

Steve: I’d love to see citizen science become part of everyday life. When I explain to people what citizen science is all about, they’re always excited. They love the idea that anyone can take part in research and innovation. My dream is that this mindset, that everyone can participate, and every voice matters, becomes embedded across society.

Carolina: And hopefully, that also means more citizen science fairs in the future!

Steve: Absolutely. The energy, the exchange, there’s clearly a lot of potential to build on.