Citizen scientists provide vital climate data for Ecuador

In Ecuador, a dedicated network of 56 volunteers in 35 different cantons are diligently observing and recording daily weather patterns, contributing vital data to national climate monitoring efforts. These citizen scientists, part of the Climate Volunteer Observers Network (Volunclima), measure rainfall and note weather conditions, sending their observations to a central database in Guayaquil. Their meticulous work informs climate maps used by key institutions like the National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (Inamhi), the Secretariat of Risk Management, and the Ministry of Agriculture.

Launched five years ago, Volunclima is spearheaded by the International Research Center on El Niño Phenomenon (Ciifen) with support from international cooperation projects. None of the volunteers receive any payment for their service. The network comprises a diverse group, including farmers, teachers, park rangers, and local government technicians, all committed to providing essential meteorological information. This data is crucial for anticipating climate events, enabling timely and effective decision-making across various sectors.

The impact of this volunteer effort is significant, as demonstrated by a specific case in May 2024. Measurements from a station in the Galápagos Islands revealed a rainfall deficit of 40%. This information was relayed to the provincial government, which then implemented measures to mitigate the effects of the drought. Similarly, in Palestina, Guayas, a municipal technician uses data from a local station to feed an early warning system for floods, while farmers like Jackson Ortiz in Pedro Carbo use pluviometer readings to decide on irrigation, saving resources.

Volunclima's contribution is particularly valuable in a country like Ecuador, where rainfall can vary significantly from one area to another, and phenomena like El Niño and La Niña regularly disrupt agricultural seasons. By empowering local communities to generate their own timely and relevant information, the network fosters a proactive approach to climate challenges. The United Nations has recognized Volunclima's efforts as a voluntary commitment supporting the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, highlighting the program's international significance despite its reliance on imported instruments, remote training, and communication via WhatsApp groups.