Beachgoers at Tyrella Beach in County Down are invited to participate in a global citizen science project called CoastSnap. Launched on July 9, 2026, this initiative encourages visitors to capture photographs of the coastline using a smartphone. These images will aid scientists in tracking coastal changes caused by erosion, rising sea levels, and climate change.
Understanding Coastal Changes Through Citizen Science
CoastSnap allows local visitors to contribute to scientific research by photographing a specific part of the beach. Each photo is taken from a fixed position using a steel cradle designed to hold smartphones horizontally. This ensures that all images are consistent and can be accurately compared over time.
According to Melanie Biausque, a geomorphologist with the Geological Survey Northern Ireland, “We’re trying to understand how the coastline changes now and how it will evolve in the future.” The project aims to gather data that can help scientists develop strategies to protect coastlines from environmental impacts.
The Role of Tyrella Beach in the CoastSnap Project
Tyrella Beach was chosen as the first CoastSnap location in Northern Ireland due to local volunteer efforts in restoring sand dunes. Biausque highlighted the significance of these volunteer activities, stating, “I realized that I had never had any idea that was happening - and I really wanted to put that on the map.”
