Tokyo launches citizen science survey to track urban biodiversity

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government and biodiversity developer Biome Inc. launched a large-scale citizen science initiative, the Tokyo Biodiversity Survey Summer 2026 beginning this month. The project encourages residents and visitors across the capital to capture and submit photos of local wildlife using the free smartphone application “Biome.” Their efforts will contribute extensive ecological data to compile the “Tokyo Biodiversity Inventory,” a digital, interactive map showcasing the distribution of Tokyo’s diverse flora and fauna.

Relying solely on academic experts to map rapidly changing urban ecosystems is no longer viable due to the sheer volume of time and labour required. The project leverages citizen science, and establishes a continuous stream of ecological data. Participants of all skill levels can engage in the survey through ten thematic quests designed to gamify the process of tracking local species.

The Biome app features a proprietary artificial intelligence system capable of identifying approximately 100,000 species of plants and animals across Japan from user-submitted photographs. To assist participants, quests are offered, including specific guides with tips on where and how to find targeted species, thereby educating the public on local ecosystems. Successful contributors also stand a chance to win various prizes through a lottery system.

Now entering its fourth year, the Tokyo Biodiversity Survey has grown rapidly, collecting over 140,000 submissions in 2024 and exceeding 160,000 in 2025. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government published the official “Tokyo Biodiversity Survey 2025 Activity Report” to coincide with the launch of the summer 2026 campaign. In tandem with the digital survey, a physical educational campaign is taking place at Tokyo Skytree Town. Running from 11 July to 30 August, the Great Insect Exhibition features panel displays exploring Tokyo’s historical and contemporary insect life, alongside expert-led educational classes.

The Tokyo Biodiversity Survey Summer 2026 will run until 31 August.