NextGenBioPest at CEIP Pare Vilallonga!

On April 2, students from CEIP Pare Vilallonga in Burriana (Castellón) participated in a unique and engaging science outreach activity organized under the NextGenBioPest project. The event featured a visit from Alberto Urbaneja, researcher at the Plant Protection and Biotechnology Center of IVIA, who guided students through the fascinating world of plant communication and biological pest control.

The session introduced 5th-grade students to key scientific concepts in a hands-on, accessible way. Using demonstrations, educational videos, and digital microscopes, students explored how plants interact with their environment and defend themselves against pests — not with words, but with chemical signals.

Plants, as the students learned, release volatile organic compounds into the air to "communicate." These compounds can signal nearby plants to prepare for insect attacks or attract natural predators and parasites that help control pest populations. This natural defense strategy is a cornerstone of biological pest control and plays an important role in sustainable agriculture.

The workshop also introduced students to some of the most effective allies in the fight against agricultural pests: beneficial insects such as ladybugs and parasitic wasps. These natural enemies can reduce the need for chemical pesticides, making farming practices more environmentally friendly and sustainable.

The goal of this educational initiative was to spark scientific curiosity and foster an early appreciation for the role of research in solving real-world problems. By highlighting the connections between plant biology, ecology, and agriculture, the event encouraged students to think critically about how science can contribute to a healthier planet.

This activity is part of the broader mission of the NextGenBioPest project: to engage communities, especially young learners, in the science behind sustainable farming solutions. By investing in education and outreach, the project aims to cultivate a new generation of environmentally conscious citizens and future scientists.