From citizen science experiences to stewardship action: The importance of both nature and social experiences

• Published in: Marine policy Vol. 173; p. 106537
• Main Authors: Church, Emma K., Wilson, Kerrie A., Loder, Jennifer, Dean, Angela J.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.03.2025
• Subjects: Behavior change; Conservation; Ocean literacy; Restoration; Social learning; Transformative learning; Behavior change; Social learning; Restoration; Transformative learning; Ocean literacy; Conservation
• ISSN: 0308-597X
• DOI: 10.1016/j.marpol.2024.106537

Marine citizen science initiatives often aim to foster ocean stewardship, yet the key factors for success remain uncertain. While time in nature and environmental knowledge are believed to be crucial for encouraging stewardship, the role of other aspects of citizen science, such as social experiences, in influencing outcomes is also not well understood. To address this, we surveyed 131 people attending marine citizen science events. We discovered that both nature and social interactions were significantly associated with the likelihood of adopting ocean stewardship actions. Social interactions that involve observing and learning from others were associated with a greater likelihood of future stewardship action. Nature experiences that 'made conservation issues real' were more influential than feeling energized or connected to nature. We also found that some effects vary according to individual characteristics such as ecocentric values and past involvement in groups. Our findings show that marine citizen science initiatives can effectively promote ocean stewardship. They highlight the importance of providing experiences that connect nature experiences to conservation issues and stewardship actions within a social environment that promotes observation and discussion. Additionally, evaluating these programs with clear objectives is crucial for understanding and improving their impact on ocean stewardship. •Observing and learning from others increased the likelihood of future stewardship actions.•Nature experiences that "made conservation issues real" had more impact than feeling energized or connected to nature.•Combining nature experiences and social interactions in citizen science strengthens impact.•Effects vary by ecocentric values and past involvement in groups.