Project M3.4.B/CIÊNCIA CIDADÃ/041/2019

Life Sciences produce not only basic knowledge, but also information necessary for decision-making in the management and conservation of native biota and for raising awareness among locals and tourists on the subject. Research centers, such as the Grupo de Biodiversidade dos Açores (GBA-Ce3c, University of the Azores), have been producing fundamental information on biodiversity in the Region, but the information generated rarely reaches the general public, leaving thus, most of society is alien to the processes and results of scientific research. In order to reduce the gap between scientists and society, graphic products in contemporary, accessible and appealing languages ​​will be developed within the scope of this citizen science project, inspired by research carried out mainly by the Biodiversity Group of the Azores. The graphic material will be applied on various supports (eg postcards and T-shirts) to be distributed free of charge to local communities and visitors to promote the native biodiversity of the Azores and the research carried out on it. To ensure balanced approximations between scientific rigor and accuracy, the metaphor and figurative meaning of art and the interests, grammars and tastes of the audiences for which this initiative is intended, a forum will be created for researchers, artists and representatives of the various segments of citizens. targeted, in which the contours of the products to be designed will be negotiated. The introduction of this social "filter" in scientific dissemination promotes, in innovative and effective ways, local biodiversity, gives audibility to science produced in the Azores and confirms the relevance of citizen science, diversifying the modalities of action and contributions of civil society to science and nature conservation. The sustainability of the results of this project stems, on the other hand, from the availability of modes of operation that can become autonomous in the use of the illustrations produced for future initiatives and/or the creation of new products to promote the islands and their natural heritage.

Scientific research provides basic scientific knowledge, but also the information necessary for management
and conservation of native biota, to raise awareness among locals and tourists on the subject. Research groups,
namely the Azores Biodiversity Group (GBA-Ce3c, University of the Azores), have been producing
fundamental information about the biodiversity of the Azores. However, the information generated rarely reaches the public
in general, thus leaving most of the society oblivious to the investigation carried out. We aim to bridge the gap between
scientists and the rest of society and for that, we will create graphic projects inspired by research in biodiversity
of the Azores carried out mainly by the GBA, after public consultation. The graphic material will be applied on various supports (eg.
postcards and T-shirts) to be distributed free of charge to local communities and visitors to promote biodiversity
native of the Azores and the research carried out on it.