This research study aimed to better understand farmers’ awareness and attitudes towards citizen science and environmental data collection, including their motivations and barriers to participation. With this information, the study aimed to identify how engagement and participation could be improved to enable more meaningful contribution and impact of citizen science to address global issues. Using a mixed-method approach with an evidence review and primary research through surveys and interviews, the study employs the COM-B behaviour change model.
Findings reveal high engagement in data collection, primarily for on-farm management. Key barriers include time constraints and technological costs. Farmers expressed willingness to share data and participate in citizen science, especially with financial incentives and transparent processes. Motivations include obtaining useful farm data, learning new skills, and accessing expert advice.
Recommendations for project organizers involve providing equipment, reducing farmers’ time commitments, promoting projects through farmer networks, and offering meaningful rewards. Policymakers are encouraged to review financial incentives, streamline administrative processes, and support training programs. The study highlights the need for relational rather than transactional data collection and suggests future research on trust factors in data sharing, technology use, and international practices in farmer engagement.