The crowdsource module visualises publicly generated climate data in a digital map. Finding ready-to-use spatial data on climate hazards and vulnerable locations can be a challenge. Local crowdsourcing presents an opportunity to collect this information through methods such as community mapping. Citizens or specific user groups are asked to map climate information via a questionnaire. The resulting dataset can be used to validate technical data or help to prioritise actions. Besides collecting data, the crowdsource module engages citizens and initiates discussion, helping to raise public awareness about climate adaptation.
There are both free and commercial software licenses available for tools that support crowd sourcing. If a city has no software available, a license may be costly. An example of a commercial tool that can be used is ArcGIS.
A tool based on open source components is also a possibility, but requires programming skills.
The Crowdsourcing Module for Cork was tested by Geography students at University College Cork, using a tailored questionnaire to collect climate-related data. So far, 49 inputs have been gathered, and the results can be explored on a digital map. This map highlights potentially vulnerable areas and objects, accompanied by photos. Examples include floodplains, low bridges, clogged water drains, and flooded areas. View the example here.
In Lillestrøm, the Crowdsource Module has been developed and implemented to identify and validate flooding during extreme rain events. The tool enables citizens to report stormwater issues on their properties, supporting real-time response and mitigation efforts. To introduce the module, a launch workshop was organized for city employees.
The Crowdsource tool is particularly useful for city representatives wishing to plan adaptation action as it allows to:
If you have an ArcGIS license, the cost and effort to set up this tool are relatively low. Alternatively, open-source solutions like QField are available. However, collecting input from citizens requires an active communication campaign, which involves additional costs and effort that should be carefully considered.
A guide to help you set up a crowdsource tool.
Link to the Crowdsource Manager Guidance from ArcGIS
Koen Veenenbos
koen@climateadaptationservices.com
Climate Adaptation Services
The crowdsourcing tool could be used to complement and verify output from other tools such as the Pluvial flood hazard and risk assessment, FloodAdapt tool in urban areas (C3S) and the Thermal Assessment Tool. In addition, the crowdsourcing module can be embedded into the climate stories to support communication.
During an extreme rainfall event, Jan watches in fear as water rises dangerously close to flooding his apartment. His experience highlights the urgent need for climate adaptation in Gdynia, inspiring the community to take action and build a more resilient future together.
