privacy-policy

Privacy Policy for EchoSoil Citizen Science App

Effective Date: 2025-01-30

Last updated: 2025-04-14

1. Introduction

Welcome to the EchoSoil Citizen Science App (“EchoSoil”, “ECHO,” “we,” “our,” or “us”). ECHO is a Research and Innovation Action co-funded by the European Union under the Horizon Europe programme, and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). The project aims to engage citizens in protecting and restoring soils by building their skills and enhancing their knowledge on soils. Citizens will actively contribute to the project’s data collection, promote soil stewardship, and foster behavioural change across the EU. Your privacy is important to us. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your data while using the ECHO app.

2. Data We Collect

EchoSoil collects only the data necessary for scientific research and app functionality. This includes:

User-Provided Data: Optional account details (if applicable), such as email for login (if required).
Scientific Contributions: Soil sample data, location of samples, environmental conditions, etc.
Device Information: Basic device metadata (e.g., operating system version) for app performance.
Location Data: If enabled, GPS location of sample collection points to ensure scientific accuracy.

We do not collect any personally identifiable information beyond what is explicitly provided by users.

3. How We Use Your Data

The collected data is used solely for:

Environmental research and analysis.
Improving app functionality and user experience.
Anonymous scientific studies, surveys and reports.

All data is processed in accordance with EU data protection laws (GDPR) and in compliance with Member State laws.

4. Data Sharing and Storage

Your data will only be used for research purposes and will not be sold or shared for commercial use.
Data may be shared with academic and environmental research institutions in anonymized form.
Data is stored securely on EU-based servers.

5. User Rights

As a user, you have the right to:

Request access to the data you have submitted.
Request correction or deletion of your personal data (if applicable).
Opt out of data collection by discontinuing use of the app.

To make a request, contact us at echo@quanta-labs.com.

6. Child Protection

We do not permit any content or behavior that exploits or endangers minors. This includes, but is not limited to, sexual content involving minors, grooming behavior, or any interaction that could be harmful. We take reports seriously and will take immediate action, including removal of content and notification to the appropriate authorities when applicable.

7. Cookies & Third-Party Services

EchoSoil does not use cookies or third-party tracking services. Any analytics collected are for research purposes only.

8. Changes to this Privacy Policy

We may update this policy to reflect changes in research needs or legal requirements. Any updates will be posted within the app and on our website.

9. Contact Us

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, you can contact us at: echo@quanta-labs.com or visit us at https://echosoil.eu

By using the EchoSoil Citizen Science App, you agree to this Privacy Policy.