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Geospatial Data, Citizen Science and Social Participation

Thu, August 30, 9:00 to 10:30am, ICC, C2.5

Abstract

The paper discusses the role of co-production and sharing of geospatial data and its visualization as maps, as a modality of citizen science with the potential to amplify social participation in territorial planning and development policies. It is part of the results of an action-research project in the municipality of Ubatuba, on the Northern coast of the State of São Paulo, Brazil, supported by the OCSDNet/IDRC. The study involved: a review of the literature on the role of data visualization (specially maps) for social appropriation of information and influence in policy-making; the monitoring and documentation of public consultation and debates on local processes of reviewing the ecological-economic zoning (EEZ); and the development of an experiment of participatory data visualization with local actors throughout this process. Public hearings on EEZ have not been sufficient to neither inform local communities nor to empower them to intervene in this process, affecting the quality - and hence on the scope - of their claims. It was conducted an exercise to build a platform prototype that articulates the efforts of sharing and visualizing spatial data, in an open and collaborative way. This experiment allowed: (1) to exchange experiences and needs among different groups and institutions; (2) to collectively construct protocols on priority topics; and (3) to stimulate synergy among future initiatives of common interest. The study points out the dual character of maps as technical and political tools under dispute that potentially both strengthen hegemonic actors and empower the vulnerable ones.

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