How do plants convert light into energy? And how do they respond to extreme conditions such as heat, drought and heavy rainfall? During an excursion to Wageningen, 250 secondary school pupils received answers to these questions on Wednesday, 16 April. Researchers from Wageningen University & Research (WUR) and the Jan IngenHousz Institute conducted guided tours, workshops and demonstrations on the Wageningen campus, as part of Fascination of Plants Day.
The pupils were given a unique opportunity to visit the modern glasshouses and climate cells of the Netherlands Plant Eco-phenotyping Centre (NPEC). Here, specialist research is carried out on plant growth and health under extreme conditions by means of digital phenotyping – the study of visible characteristics of plants. This research contributes to the development of new crops and sustainable cultivation methods that are better able to withstand the effects of climate change.
In the research fields, the pupils got hands-on experience with measurement equipment to study the photosynthesis of plants. They were guided by scientists from the Jan IngenHousz Institute, who are working on ways to optimise photosynthesis and thereby increase crop yields. Drones and the innovative field vehicle, the TraitSeeker, were also on display, used by researchers to inspect and analyse plants in the field.
The pupils asked plenty of questions about topics such as sustainable food production and the role of plants in this. Researcher Rick van de Zedde said: “It is inspiring to see that pupils want to understand our research and share our concerns about the effects of climate change.” David Kramer from the Jan IngenHousz Institute added: “Due to the impacts of climate change, research into this area is becoming increasingly urgent. Optimising photosynthesis plays a major role here. I truly enjoyed meeting tomorrow’s researchers.”
The event was organised as part of the annual Fascination of Plants Day, which takes place worldwide on 18 May. This day aims to raise awareness of the value of plants for our food supply, biodiversity and quality of life. Wageningen University & Research is one of the organisations that support this initiative.
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