Understanding and protecting forests requires the involvement of all social sectors.In this context, the initiative Forest Consciousness has emerged as a project oriented to Bringing scientific knowledge related to forest ecosystems closer to the public. Promoted by the University of Cordoba and Polytechnic University of Valencia, with the support of the Spanish Foundation for Science and Technology (FECYT)Over the past year, this program has sought to actively involve young people, teachers, and other social stakeholders in the study, observation, and understanding of the forest environment.
During the last edition of ConCiencia Forestal, more than 900 people participated in activities designed to promote environmental education and interest in forestry research.Through workshops, competitions, experiences with scientific sensors, and citizen science methodologies, the project has succeeded in creating a space for communication where science and society can share questions, concerns, and solutions related to the management and conservation of our forests.
Main actions and objectives of the project
The core of ConCiencia Forestal has been the transformation of scientific knowledge into a social tool.To this end, they set in motion three main initiatives:
- 'Cook It Yourself' Contest: Aimed at secondary school and vocational training students in the fields of agriculture and forestry, it allowed participants to create and develop their own research projects. The winning ideas received funding for implementation and were presented at a final event attended by more than 100 participants.
- Practical workshopsMore than 400 students from 17 educational centers learned about the scientific method applied to forests through workshops and activities on the use of automatic sensors and the measurement of environmental parameters. The "Put on your boots and measure" workshop demonstrated how information about soil, vegetation, and the atmosphere is collected and analyzed.
- Citizen science experiments: using the method Tea Bag Index, the general public was encouraged to participate in studies on the decomposition of organic matter in the soil. Volunteers buried tea bags and measured their decomposition after 90 days, generating a collaborative map of the experiment sites.
All activities have been aimed at awakening scientific vocations, strengthening the link between science and society and promoting direct and two-way communication between researchers and citizens.The project has emphasized the importance of generate a forest culture based on knowledge and the participation of all social sectors.
The presentation day and the featured projects
A final meeting was held in which the participating centers presented their work and research.Among the projects presented are:
- Analysis of regeneration after fires in areas of the Sierra de la Solana (Alicante).
- Study of forest dynamics and management proposals in the Sierra de Valdeminguete (Cuenca).
- Research on the impact of climate change on soils and plant species (holm oak, yew) conducted by educational centers in Valencia and Catarroja.
- Evaluation of the effects of noise pollution on plant growth and studies on water stress.
The experience has contributed to building bridges between the educational field and university work, bringing forestry science closer to society from a participatory perspective..
Balance and perspectives of ConCiencia Forestal
The project has managed to involve almost a thousand people, including students, teachers and the general public, in experimentation and debate on the major challenges of forest management.Among its achievements are collaboration with various universities, the development of educational resources, and the creation of educational materials that can be accessed through its official website.
The initiative It seeks to continue expanding its geographic and social reach, with a view to strengthening communication and scientific culture around forests.. Forest Consciousness It is thus an example of how Collective participation can transform the relationship between science and citizens, putting knowledge at the service of protecting the natural environment..
