Participatory Science for Environmental Protection

  • StoryMap on Participatory Science

    Learn about participatory science and explore EPA-supported projects, collaborations, and how to get involved in our new, interactive StoryMap! 

    View the StoryMap.

  • EPA's Equipment Loan Programs

    Ready to collect your own participatory science data? Check out EPA's Equipment Loan Programs to learn more.

  • EPA Vision for Participatory Science

    EPA envisions a future where all parts of society are increasingly engaged and empowered to help advance scientific knowledge and inform environmental protection actions.

    Read Using Participatory Science at EPA: Vision and Principles.

  • Quality Assurance Toolkit for Participatory Science

    EPA's QA Toolkit features a QA Handbook, video series, and two fact sheets that can help you complete a Quality Assurance Project Plan and successfully start a project. 

What is Participatory Science? 

Participatory science (PS) engages the public in advancing scientific knowledge by formulating research questions, collecting data, and interpreting results. Other terms include citizen science, community science, or public participation in scientific research. EPA supports these initiatives through a range of resources including funding, technical support, and tools.

To learn more about participatory science, watch our introduction video to hear from EPA, state, Tribal, and community PS leaders on the impact of involving the public in science.

We hope the video inspires you to explore our Participatory Science StoryMap and get involved!

What's New?

Ready to Get Involved?

Find a participatory science project near you!

  • Check out Citizenscience.gov for a government-wide listing of participatory science efforts and cross-agency collaborations 
  • Check out Scistarter.org to find participatory science projects across the world
Contact Us to ask a question, provide feedback, or report a problem.
Last updated on October 8, 2024