Cristina Martin-Hernandez, Phil Taylor, Hannah Risser, Carly Stevens, Ed Rowe, David Vowles and Mike Perring.
Last month, the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UKCEH) together with Lancaster University, Defra (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) and CEEDS, hosted a hackathon that was the second part of the APIENs|Directions series. APIENs is the Air Pollution Impacts on Ecosystems Networks, designed to integrate different monitoring networks across the UK.
Comprising reported data on terrestrial biodiversity, freshwater chemistry and biota, soil properties and atmospheric pollutants, APIENs aims to help understand the dynamics and effects of air pollution on freshwater, natural and semi-natural, and forest habitats. The aim of the hackathon was to focus on how to integrate and enhance the use of the APIENs dataset. This event was a testament to the power of collaboration, made possible through the partnership with CEEDS.
The APIENs dataset has always held immense potential, but it was used to satisfy a statutory duty, and the template that was required made the data rather inaccessible. The aim of this Hackathon was to explore creative ways to make better use of the dataset and develop solutions that address real-world environmental challenges. Some of these challenges were highlighted by a preliminary stakeholder workshop held in October 2024 - the first part of the APIENs|Directions series.
Throughout the event, participating teams brought their expertise and enthusiasm, generating an array of valuable outputs and fresh ideas. Their innovative approaches to integrating and using data showcased the immense creativity within the scientific and developer communities.
Each team brought unique solutions to the table, including exploring datasets spatially and developing engaging visualizations, thinking beyond the immediate problem to consider the bigger picture, and proposing ideas for integrating data into existing scientific frameworks. Some teams delved into answering complex scientific questions by incorporating new datasets to enhance explanations, while others focused on creating intuitive visualization tools to aid analysis.
These solutions offer insights into how we can maximize use of the APIENs dataset. The APIENs team continues to be inspired by the energy and ideas shared by the participants.
One of the key takeaway messages from the Hackathon was the volume of constructive feedback we received. This feedback is crucial as it will help shape the future direction of APIENs and ensure the dataset remains a robust tool for researchers and decision-makers alike.
Collaboration was at the heart of this event. Without CEEDS' partnership and support, and Defra’s targeting of particular stakeholders, this Hackathon would not have been the resounding success it was. Together, we demonstrated how pooling resources and expertise can drive meaningful progress.
This Hackathon is just one step in a larger journey. We’re excited to see how these ideas will evolve and look forward to continuing to work together with the air pollution effects, data science and policy communities to unlock the full potential of APIENs.
Stay tuned for updates as we further develop these insights and plan future events in the APIENs series!
Finally, a big thank you to CEEDS and Defra, and David Vowles in particular, for enabling this event to go ahead, thanks to Tom Bell for making sure everything went smoothly.