Be A Citizen Scientist
We Need Citizen Science Now More Than Ever
Scientific is moving too slowly, and our planet can't wait. We are facing unprecedented threats to our climate and water systems—existential crises that demand urgent action, innovation, and above all, participation. But the traditional scientific process, burdened by shrinking grants, prolonged studies, complex publishing requirements, inaccessible data, and paywalls simply can’t keep up. We need a new model that empowers ordinary people to become part of the scientific engine.
Enter citizen science.
Citizen science is the practice of public participation in scientific research by collecting data, monitoring local ecosystems, supporting studies, and helping translate science into action. This grassroots movement is not just about filling gaps; it’s about revolutionizing the way knowledge is acquired and shared. Anyone with curiosity, time, and a willingness to learn can contribute. There is no PhD required, just commitment and care for our shared future.
We need a legion of citizen scientists who will learn about their local environments, protect them, and pass that knowledge on. We need volunteers for local causes, funding support for researchers and NGOs, and people who will spark a culture of hands-on engagement. Together, we can speed up science, democratize access to data, and protect the world we depend on.
Be part of the solution. Learn. Act. Share. Repeat.
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The Animals Are Hurting — And So Are We
Lately, there have been reports of a troubling shift in how animals behave. A marine biologist snorkelling off the coast of Australia, just trying to understand a toxic algal bloom, was suddenly barbed by an eagle ray that charged straight at her. In California, sea lions have begun chasing and biting swimmers without warning. And if you've ever encountered a rabid raccoon, you know there's something chilling about their complete lack of fear.
It's easy to label this behavior as "crazy" or "aggressive," but maybe there's something deeper happening. When animals are sick, stressed, or pushed too far, they act out. And honestly, humans do too.
Think about someone you love who's been seriously ill, maybe with something like COPD. You might have noticed how easily they become frustrated or short-tempered. It's not because they're unkind. It's because breathing has become a battle.
The truth is, the planet is struggling. Animals are responding to the mounting stress of pollution, climate change, and toxic environments. And we, too, feel it in our bodies, minds, and communities.
So the next time someone lashes out or seems unreasonably angry, we can pause. Instead of reacting, we can ask ourselves, are they in pain? Are they overwhelmed? Like those sea lions or that ray, they might be bearing something we can't see.
Compassion won't solve the climate crisis alone, but it's a start. It's a way to stay human in a world that's hurting — a way to show up for each other when things get hard.
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Meeting A Remarkable Man
From Robert
As Jill's husband, I've found myself in places and situations that I otherwise would never imagine. From an Antarctic research station to the easternmost tip of North America on Newfoundland, I marvel at just how far I've journeyed from the narrow streets of North Philadelphia.
Above: Robert and Jill at the Chilean research station, Antarctica
I’ve accompanied Jill to conferences and galas the world over. Some of these events are attended by luminaries and there are usually a sprinkling of government officials, diplomats and ministers. None more impressive than The Right Honourable Jean Chretien, the former Prime Minister of Canada. He led our country from 1993 to 2003, and is considered among the great international statesmen of the 21st century.
Mr. Chretien has recently been a steady force in the global media, countering Donald Trump's obsession to take over Canada. Mr. Chretien has met Trump's 51st state rhetoric with an iron-clad "No! Canada will never be annexed by the United States!"
So, what weird forces conspired to place Jean Chretien and me into the same room enjoying a spirited twenty-minute conversation about the state of the world? A birthday party for Mr. Chretien's son, our friend "Hubie." Hubert Chretien is the founder and CEO of Freedom At Depth, a training organization for scuba divers with physical challenges. Jill is a Freedom At Depth volunteer support diver.
Above: Freedom At Depth Scuba instructor and student
As we were mingling I noticed Jill smile and say hello to the person standing behind me. Into my field of view stepped a familiar face. With his distinctive French-Canadian inflection, Mr. Jean Chretien chatted with us about Hubert's valuable work, beaming as any proud father would. However, when Mr. Chretien learned that I was born in the United States, recently became a Canadian citizen and renounced my U.S. ties, his manner abruptly changed from proud Papa to fierce defender of Canada's sovereignty. He drew me close and grasped my arm. Leaning in to capture my undivided attention, he shared his sense of responsibility at ninety-one years of age to get up each day, put on his suit, and be the vanguard fighting for Canadian values.
Jill and I were left with an overall sense of optimism. With people like Jean Chretien on the front lines protecting our sovereignty, Canada is positioned well during these chaotic geopolitical times.
A few weeks ago we held a Federal election in Canada. On their special pre-election episode, the CBC comedy/news show "This Hour Has 22 Minutes" featured a light-hearted segment with Jean Chretien and “22 Minutes" host Mark Critch. For those not familiar with Canadian history, Critch teases Mr. Chretien about his age with references to Macdonald and Laurier, prime ministers of the late 1800s. In his usual down-to-earth way, Prime Minister Chretien displays his famous sense of humour and plays along...even offering Critch a mock “Shawinigan Handshake!”
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You are such a good soul Luca! I am so happy that you are working on your residency. We are a fortunate nation to gain from your talents and insight! Much love to you.
Thanks for this post, Jill. I’m trying to find out ways to combine diving with citizen science here in Florida. One way I thought of is helping with the coral nurseries down I the Florida Keys. Perhaps there are other opportunities closer to me in Central Florida near the springs. If you have any ideas or contacts, I’m all ears!