Initiatives

Initiative

Citizen Science for Disaster Risk Preparedness Policy Development in Kakanj, BiH

Donor: European Commission, IMPETUS

Implementation period: Apr 2025 – Jan 2026

This project aims to transform disaster risk preparedness in the municipality of Kakanj through an inclusive, data-driven citizen science approach. Over seven months, the initiative will train and engage over 100 citizen scientists—citizens from all local neighborhoods, but primarily youth, rural residents, and members of the Roma community—in mapping disaster risks using geo-mapping technologies and participatory research methods. These volunteers will work in partnership with disaster experts, researchers, local NGOs, and municipal authorities. 

Together, they will co-design a risk mapping methodology, collect and analyze data on hazards such as flooding, landslides, industrial pollution, and earthquake vulnerability, and develop an open-access risk dataset. The findings will inform policy recommendations for a local disaster risk reduction strategy, which will be formally presented to the Municipality of Kakanj. In parallel, the project will produce a scientific paper, technical mapping guidelines, and advocacy materials, all shared through EU open science platforms. 

Beyond its scientific and policy contributions, the project prioritizes social impact. It fosters environmental awareness, strengthens youth leadership, and supports inclusive community participation in disaster governance. With a strong sustainability plan, it aims to evolve into a long-term platform for grassroots risk monitoring and environmental transformation in Kakanj—setting a precedent for participatory resilience planning in other municipalities.