Open Air Laboratories Network (OPAL)
The Open Air Laboratories Network (OPAL) is a partnership initiative throughout England that aims to get the public more involved with nature through a range of local and national projects. The initiative is funded by the Big Lottery Fund Changing Spaces Programme.
The portfolio of partners includes nine regional universities, the Natural History Museum, the Open University, the Field Studies Council, the Meteorological Office, the National Biodiversity Network, the Royal Parks and the Environment Agency. The lead partner is Imperial College, London.
OPAL has run seven national surveys, focusing respectively on soil, water quality, air quality, climate, biodiversity, invertebrates and tree health. By involving the public in scientific research, the project has been able to collect a large amount of data that can be used to build up a picture of England's natural environment.
Additionally, OPAL has worked to inspire the public to become more involved in nature through its national surveys, regional events, and a wide range of free resources made available through the OPAL website.
Read more about Open Air Laboratories Network (OPAL): Soil and Earthworm Survey, Air Survey, Water Survey, Biodiversity Survey, Climate Survey, Bugs Count, Tree Health Survey, Community Environment Report, Projects and Partners
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