Meritxell Martell represented the RadoNorm Citizen Science Incubator at the workshop “Citizen Science in Radioactivity Measurement: Empowering Europeans for better Environmental Monitoring” held on 4 June 2025 at the Maison Irène et Frédéric Joliot-Curie in Brussels. The event brought together citizen science initiatives to explore new ways of collaborating and advancing citizen involvement in radiation monitoring in Europe. The workshop focused on strengthening the European dimension of citizen science, with panel discussions addressing key topics such as the long-term sustainability of citizen-led initiatives and how to integrate citizen-generated data into policy and decision-making processes.

Representing the RadoNorm Citizen Science Incubator, Meritxell Martell took part in the panel on sustaining citizen science efforts. She shared insights from RadoNorm’s work on the motivations that drive citizen engagement. Findings suggest that when participants are intrinsically motivated—finding the activity enjoyable, interesting, or fulfilling—they tend to be more committed. The research also highlighted generational differences: younger participants, particularly students, are more likely to be motivated by extrinsic factors such as career advancement and tangible rewards (e.g., certificates or prizes), while adults often engage out of altruism and a desire to contribute to their communities.

The workshop concluded with remarks from Mr. Jean-Marc Bertho (OpenRadiation) and Ms. Dorte Riemenschneider, Managing Director of the European Citizen Science Association (ECSA). While a distinction remains between citizen science in routine versus emergency contexts, the event underscored a strong momentum to connect networks and foster long-term cooperation across Europe.

More details on the RadoNorm citizen science projects can be found on the website.