Beyond the Forest: Exploring Everyday Biodiversity
In addition to exploring the richness of forest ecosystems, our educational journey with young people extended to meadows, field edges, and the urban and peri-urban spaces surrounding their school. This immersive itinerary engaged students in a series of workshops focused on soil, wild plants, and local biodiversity. Through hands-on and creative activities, participants discovered how nature resists and regenerates—even in the most unexpected and seemingly “unnatural” places.
Exploring and Observing the Nature Around Us
Over several days, students took part in exploratory walks around the school grounds and surrounding urban areas. They observed and identified more than twenty species of spontaneous plants—many of them edible—learning to recognize their features and appreciate the diversity of plant life across different environments. Direct observation and soil analysis helped them reflect on the relationship between soil health and plant presence, revealing the soil as a dynamic, living ecosystem.
From Theory to Practice: Botanical Drawing and Creative Expression
Each student selected a spontaneous plant to observe and illustrate through botanical drawing, creating exhibition posters that included both common and scientific names, as well as interesting facts, morphological traits, and potential uses—including culinary applications—of wild herbs. This integration of art and science sparked a deeper awareness of the plant biodiversity that surrounds us every day.
A Journey of Collective Growth
The series of workshops awakened the students’ curiosity and ecological awareness, helping them see the urban landscape as a space rich in biodiversity and inspiration. Through collaborative work and shared observations, they deepened their sense of belonging to the land and cultivated a renewed ability to perceive and appreciate nature with fresh eyes.
Towards a New Ecological Consciousness
This experience demonstrates how education can become a living laboratory of ecology and creativity—where art and science come together to celebrate biodiversity and nurture a culture of care and environmental responsibility. A journey that supports young people in becoming mindful and passionate guardians of nature—from the forest to the city streets.
