How can you collect and update urban ecological data?

1 Remote sensing

Remote sensing is the use of satellites, aircraft, drones, or other devices to capture images or measurements of the earth's surface. It can provide spatial and temporal information on various urban ecological indicators, such as land cover, vegetation, water quality, air pollution, and climate. Remote sensing data can be accessed from various sources, such as NASA, USGS, ESA, or private companies. You can use software like ArcGIS, QGIS, or Google Earth Engine to process and analyze remote sensing data for your planning purposes.

2 Citizen science

Citizen science is the involvement of volunteers or non-experts in collecting, analyzing, or sharing scientific data. It can help you engage with the local community, increase public awareness, and generate more diverse and fine-grained data. Citizen science projects can use various methods and tools, such as mobile apps, online platforms, sensors, or cameras, to collect data on urban ecology topics, such as biodiversity, noise, waste, or green spaces. You can use platforms like iNaturalist, eBird, Zooniverse, or SciStarter to find or create citizen science projects for your planning needs.

3 Social media

Social media is the use of online platforms or networks to communicate, share, or exchange information or content. It can help you access large and rich datasets on urban ecology issues, such as perceptions, preferences, behaviors, or sentiments. Social media data can be extracted from various sources, such as Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, or Flickr, using APIs, web scraping, or third-party tools. You can use software like R, Python, or NodeXL to analyze and visualize social media data for your planning insights.

4 Open data

Open data is the data that is freely available and accessible for anyone to use, reuse, or redistribute. It can help you access reliable and updated data on urban ecology aspects, such as policies, regulations, indicators, or statistics. Open data can be accessed from various sources, such as governments, NGOs, research institutions, or international organizations. You can use platforms like Open Data Portal, World Bank Data, or UN Data to find or download open data for your planning objectives.

5 Participatory mapping

Participatory mapping is the use of maps or spatial tools to involve stakeholders in identifying, representing, or communicating spatial information or knowledge. It can help you collect and update qualitative and contextual data on urban ecology aspects, such as values, needs, conflicts, or opportunities. Participatory mapping can use various methods and tools, such as paper maps, GPS devices, web maps, or GIS software, to collect data from different groups or perspectives. You can use platforms like Maptionnaire, Mapbox, or Survey123 to create or conduct participatory mapping projects for your planning outcomes.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?