Vanuatu is one of the world’s most at risk countries to the impacts of climate change. After just two years of implementation, the ClimateWatch program, an initiative of Earthwatch Australia, is demonstrating how community led Citizen Science can increase climate resilience through data collection of Indigenous Knowledge species.
Biodiversity and Climate Program Manager, Shannon Anstee, saw first-hand the impact of the ClimateWatch expansion across Vanuatu in her recent visit to the country.
“It is incredible to see the extent of the expansion across the country and to have the opportunity to walk a community trail and visit Fetukai school in Tanna”.
ClimateWatch is a phone-based app that allows anyone across Vanuatu to upload key phenological data on plants and animals. In particular, the app focuses on Traditional Knowledge species. Data from the app is combined with contemporary weather forecast systems to create more robust predictions and a more climate resilient country.
Engaging local communities
ClimateWatch trails are a designated routes that follow the path of ClimateWatch species. They make great tools for education and provide robust repeat data of individual species.
Earthwatch Australia partnered with local partner Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department (VMGD) to embed the use of ClimateWatch across communities to increase data collection on Traditional Knowledge species through ClimateWatch trails.
VMGD have worked extensively in collaboration with local communities to establish 10 trails through all provinces of Vanuatu. Including in local village and conservation area Nimatang Mita where Shannon was shown the trail through the forest by members of the local community.
Through this mode of engagement, VMGD and EW are empowering Community Climate Champions to teach others about ClimateWatch and the importance of data collection.
Walking the local climate watch trail with community members from NimatangMita.
Empowering the next generation
“It’s vital to educate the next generation on the importance of Traditional Knowledge and provide opportunities for inter-generational exchange and the ClimateWatch program provides the perfect opportunity to do that” – Rowhany Iaken, Lead Facilitator, ClimateWatch Traditional Knowledge Project (HCDI).
ClimateWatch partner Human Capacity Development International (HCDI) are implementing Vanuatu’s first ClimateWatch program that links the nationwide Traditional Knowledge curriculum with the ClimateWatch program.
Through the use of ClimateWatch, students learn more about the natural changes in the world around them and are presented the opportunity to hear from local village Chiefs who impart important Traditional Knowledge.
Local school children capturing ClimateWatch data on Traditional Knowledge species found around their school.
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Through this pioneer project, Earthwatch and their ClimateWatch partners across Vanuatu are empowering local childrenand community to understand the importance of Traditional Knowledge and to collect valuable data to make a difference.