Citizen science and volunteering is an important part of conservation and heritage.
There are many ways you can get involved in projects, and many volunteer oppourtunities to suit whatever level of involvement you want. RSPB have put together a list of ways you can help that take under an hour: http://www.rspb.org.uk/joinandhelp/volunteering/micro.aspx
And if you have more time to give there are many other projects run through RSPB and other conservation and heritage organisation that will always appreciate your involvement.