Dundee University is to lead a multi-million-pound environmental project working with gardeners, farmers and growers.
The GROW observatory is a Europe-wide initiative which will look to empower farmers, gardeners and growers with knowledge on sustainable farming practices.
The €5 million (£4.2 million) project will look to engage with tens of thousands of “citizen scientists” who will assist in monitoring changes to the global environment.
Farmers, gardeners and growers will be asked to submit data, such as soil samples, to help monitor growing conditions across vast geographical areas.
Dr Drew Hemment, who is leading the project for the university, said: “This is citizen science on an unprecedented scale.
“People taking part will collaborate to create and share information on soil, the land, on crops – what to plant, when to plant them and how to do it.
“They will be able to develop knowledge and skills on soil and growing for food, and take practical steps to preserve the soil for future generations.”
The money for the project will be provided via the European Commission’s Horizon 2020 programme.
Despite the UK voting to leave the European Union in July, institutions can still apply for EU funding until the UK formally leaves.
