Rewilding Earth Podcast: Episode 145 Summary
Title: Calling All Citizen Scientists! How To Make A Big Impact On Your Next Adventure With Adventure Scientists
Host: Jack Humphrey
Guest: Greg Trinish, Founder of Adventure Scientists
Release Date: March 28, 2025
Introduction
In Episode 145 of the Rewilding Earth Podcast, host Jack Humphrey welcomes Greg Trinish, the visionary founder of Adventure Scientists. This episode delves into the transformative role of citizen science in conservation, showcasing how everyday outdoor enthusiasts can contribute significantly to scientific research and environmental preservation.
The Power of Citizen Science
Greg Trinish emphasizes the untapped potential of citizen scientists in addressing critical environmental issues. Early in the conversation, Greg highlights the disconnect between passionate individuals and organized conservation efforts:
Greg Trinish [00:07]: "We talk about, oh, we're saying the same thing, same people, we go to the same film festivals and it's always the same. But man, the choir is not mobilized enough."
He advocates for mobilizing the engaged and concerned public to participate in scientific data collection, transforming personal adventures into impactful conservation actions.
Overcoming Adversity: Greg’s Personal Story
Greg shares a harrowing personal experience that underscores his commitment to citizen science. While working in Uganda to study disease transmission between humans and gorillas, Greg encountered severe eye infection from fieldwork:
Greg Trinish [03:17]: "I was blind for weeks from Gorilla Scat. It was brutal."
Despite the setback, this incident fueled his passion for enabling others to contribute to science safely and effectively. Greg’s resilience exemplifies the dedication required in citizen science endeavors.
Success Stories from Adventure Scientists
Adventure Scientists has spearheaded numerous impactful projects. Greg recounts pioneering studies that showcase the organization's significant contributions:
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Mount Everest Plant-Fungi Symbiosis Study:
- Greg Trinish [22:10]: "We sent two climbers up to collect moss at 21,260ft, discovering five fungi that enable plants to thrive in nutrient-poor environments."
- This discovery led to the creation of Adaptive Symbiotic Technologies, which enhances crop yields globally without synthetic fertilizers.
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Illegal Timber Poaching Tracking:
- Greg Trinish [25:02]: "We've created genetic reference libraries for nine tree species, enabling law enforcement to trace illegal timber back to its origin."
- Adventure Scientists' data collection has been instrumental in prosecuting poachers, with significant legal victories in the United States.
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Harvard Medical School Collaboration:
- Greg Trinish [23:54]: "We helped collect bacterial samples from 110 countries to trace antibiotic resistance genes, crucial in combating a threat that could kill 50 million people annually by 2050."
These projects illustrate the diverse and far-reaching impact of citizen science facilitated by Adventure Scientists.
The Importance of Data in Conservation
Greg underscores the critical role of data in tackling global environmental challenges such as climate change and biodiversity loss. He explains how vast amounts of data are available but often remain unutilized:
Greg Trinish [05:04]: "The world is awash in data... there are still massive amounts of data that, if in the hands of problem solvers, could make a tremendous difference."
By organizing and harnessing this data through citizen science, Adventure Scientists bridges the gap between scientific research and practical conservation solutions.
Challenges Faced by Adventure Scientists
Despite its successes, Adventure Scientists grapples with the overwhelming demand for its programs:
Greg Trinish [11:47]: "We're a small organization and limitations are always there for sure. The more money we have, the more resources we can do."
Greg discusses the constant balance between high demand for volunteer participation and the organization’s capacity to manage and support its initiatives. He highlights the importance of philanthropic support to expand their impact.
Future Goals and Vision
Looking ahead, Greg envisions a world where every outdoor activity contributes to conservation efforts. He shares Adventure Scientists' plans to enhance their platform, making it easier for individuals to integrate citizen science into their adventures:
Greg Trinish [32:27]: "Platform.adventurescientist.org... you can tell us where you're going, you can look up projects, and add that to your trips."
This initiative aims to streamline volunteer participation, ensuring that scientific data collection becomes a seamless part of recreational activities.
Getting Involved: How Listeners Can Participate
Greg encourages listeners to join the citizen science movement through various platforms and projects:
- Adventure Scientists: Visit adventurescientists.org to explore volunteer opportunities and support the organization.
- SciStarter and other Platforms: Engage with a wide range of projects that suit different interests and skill levels.
- Mobile Apps: Utilize tools like Merlin Bird ID and Ebird to contribute data effortlessly during outdoor activities.
He emphasizes that every contribution, no matter how small, can drive meaningful change:
Greg Trinish [28:23]: "Doing citizen science and actually going out... and advancing our understanding of these issues... is a powerful way to make a lasting change in the world."
Inspiring Community and Legacy
Throughout the episode, Greg pays homage to conservation pioneers like Michael Sule and Jane Goodall, highlighting the legacy and ongoing efforts that inspire Adventure Scientists:
Greg Trinish [21:39]: "Jane Goodall just got the Presidential Medal of Freedom... their legacies are going to live on for an awful long time."
He underscores the importance of community-building and maintaining a spirit of fun and dedication in conservation work.
Conclusion
Episode 145 of the Rewilding Earth Podcast presents a compelling case for the power of citizen science in environmental conservation. Through Greg Trinish’s experiences and the impactful work of Adventure Scientists, listeners are inspired to transform their outdoor passions into valuable scientific contributions. The episode serves as a call to action, inviting everyone to participate in the collective effort to rewild and protect our planet.
Notable Quotes:
- Greg Trinish [00:07]: "The choir is not mobilized enough. And I know y'all listening want to help and I know you care deeply about these issues."
- Greg Trinish [03:17]: "I was blind for weeks from Gorilla Scat. It was brutal."
- Greg Trinish [05:04]: "Citizen science and actually going out... is a powerful way to make a lasting change in the world."
- Greg Trinish [32:27]: "Platform.adventurescientist.org... you can tell us where you're going, you can look up projects, and add that to your trips."
For more information and to get involved, visit adventurescientists.org and explore the opportunities to become a citizen scientist today.